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UNIVERSAL HISTORY,
IN
PERSPECTIVE.
BY EMMA WILLARD
SECOND EDITION,
#
PHILADELPHIA:
PUBLISHED BY A. S. BARNES & CO,
18 NORTH FOURTH STREET.
1845.
INDEX TO THE MAPS
V'
Perspective Sketch of the Course of Empire Page 33
The First Settled Parts of the Earth 43
Palestine, or the Holy Land 52
Ancient Greece 58 -
Ancient Italy * 98
The Roman Empire 138
Asia Minor 172
The Caliphate, or Empire of the Saracens 190
Middle Europe, exhibiting the Empire of Charlemagne 203
The Western Continent 291
The British Islands 329
Spain and Portugal 367
Countries around the Baltic 402
Holland and the contiguous Countries 413
United States 430
Central Europe, exhibiting the principal Campaigns of Napoleon . . 450
India and China 481
Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1844, by
A. S. BARNES & CO.,
in the clerk's office of the District Court of the United States in and for the
Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
(2)
if
PREFACE
Universal history, as a science, is great in itself, great in its conse-
quences on human conduct and happiness ; and, at this moment, particu-
larly important to the citizens of our republic.
The belief, that much experience in imparting knowledge would ena-
ble the author so to arrange and illustrate this vast subject, as to make it
less difficult to acquire and retain, was the moving spring which at first
produced this work, and which now presents it to the public in an im-
proved form. This volume offers, in the combinations of the subject-
matter, and the arrangement by which it is presented, some original fea-
tures ; and in its illustrations, we believe it will be found to solve the
problem, what is the best form of presenting the grand outline of chro-
nology. We refer, for this solution, to the plan, of which a sketch is
presented in the frontispiece ; and which we call the Temple of Time ;
and to the enlarged view of the floor-work of this Temple, contained
in the Chart of " the Course of Time, or Picture of Nations." Here is
addressed to the eye, on a small scale, a plan strictly scientific, (perspec-
tive being an exact science,) which is to the whole of history, as it exists
in time, what a small map of the world, with its few lines of latitude and
longitude, is to the same science as it exists in place. If but few cities
are set down on such a map, whoever understands geography, having
any other city given with its latitude and longitude, can refer it to its true
situation on the map, and thus know its position relative to other places.
Such will our Temple of Time be, in respect to the dates of events to
those who understand it; and persons already acquainted with history
comprehend it at a glance. Such a help, the most profound and culti-
vated mind need not despise ; for how often does it occur, that the con-
templation of characters and events as they exist with others before or
after them, leads to profound conclusions, concerning the causes and
consequences of man's conduct and destiny. But to learn such a method
in youth, to become accustomed thus to refer all events to a visible
representation of time, where the whole subject of chronology is wrought
into strict unity, and made sensible to the mind at a single glance, must
be a lasting advantage.
Of the maps contained in this work, we need say nothing, because the
public are already perfectly aware of the importance of such illustrations
3
IV PREFACE.
The repeated requests, that they might be inserted, from teachers who
use our work in their schools, have led to their preparation. They con-
tain, especially those which relate to the middle ages, names of places
historically interesting, not easily found on other maps.
In the written work, an attempt has been made to exhibit history in its
proper relative proportions. The painter allows to objects in space less
and less room upon his canvass, as those objects recede into the distance.
Such is equally the order of nature in regard to objects as they exist in
time. Yet the mountain which is distant must have more room in the
picture than the dark valley that lies near. Thus tower Greece and Rome,
amid the dimness of antiquity, and thus sink the dark ages, though nearer
to the foreground.
There are two methods between which, in a book for reading, not for
reference merely, the writer must choose ; the ethnographical, by which
nations are separately described, and the chronographical, by which the
order of time is strictly preserved. When writers of universal history
follow the ethnographical method, the reader is naturally led to consider
contemporary events as consecutive, and to seek for some plan by which
they may be placed together. This is to produce the chronographical
arrangement which he is apt to think should have been followed by the
writer. On the other hand, where the chronographical method prevails,
the reader complains of a confusion arising from mingling together the
histories of different nations, — selects the scattered parts belonging to each,
and having put them together, produces the ethnographical plan. He
now thinks that, because he has come to a good understanding of the sub-
ject, his method alone is good • not reflecting that he has had the advan-
tages of both. The truth appears to be, that history cannot be well under-
stood, unless the reader can, with the one method, trace every great nation
by itself through all its most important changes, and with the other, con-
ceive himself placed in any of the most noted periods of time, and glance
through the whole range of contemporary events.
For such a comprehension of the subject, we refer to the illustrations
already noticed ; where we have at the same glance both methods pre-
sented to the eye. In the text, we have pursued either, or combined both,
as the occasion seemed to require. When a nation has had little connec-
tion with other nations, its history has been treated separately. When
several nations have been blended, by reason of their relations with each
other, as in case of war, their history, for the time, has also been thrown
together.
To make this book easy to teachers, questions are placed at the foot of
each page. By the manner in which these are put, passages of history
which, from the imperfection of language, cannot be clearly expressed
with the brevity to which our limits confine us, are made perspicuous.
PREFACE. V
Important events are brought into bolder relief; and sometimes the
learner is called on to consider what moral reflections the subject may
suggest. The division of the work into numbered paragraphs confines
the subject of each question, and thus aids both teacher and pupil ; while
it will be an important advantage to such as shall not only use the book
in classes for recitation, but also for daily reading ; — following the maxim,
that " in a school, what pupils study they should read, and what they read
they should study."
To make this book convenient for reference, and a good family Uni-
versal History, an extended chronological table is prefixed, and many dates
are set down in a bold character on the margin. No good teacher would
oblige his pupils to learn all of these ; but they will by mere inspection
know where to find them when occasion shall require. To make this
book more attractive to learners, and to give to teachers a sample of the
kind of facts, which they will do well to acquire and relate to their
classes, the room on the margin has been occupied by side notes enclosed
in brackets. These, which the pupil is not generally required to learn or
to remember, will, we hope, make the time of study pass pleasantly, and
cause the book to be regarded as an agreeable companion.
Universal history, as a science, is great in its consequences, as it forms
the first study of the politician. No wise man presumes to form con-
clusions concerning the future destiny of nations, without first acquiring
a knowledge of the past. It is at this time peculiarly important to Ame-
ricans ; because to them the world are now looking for a response to the
grand question, " Can the people govern themselves ?" And, perhaps, the
next twenty years will decide it for coming generations. Shall monarchy
in its palaces, and aristocracy in its lordly halls, then exult, as it is told
that America is passing through anarchy to despotism, — while mankind at
large mourn, and reproach us that we have sealed their doom as well as
our own, and that of our posterity ? Or shall we continue to be that peo-
ple, which of all others heretofore, or now existing, possess the most
equitable government ; and to whom national calamity is but as a phrase
ill understood? A history of the past, no more extensive than that which
is here presented, might make us understand that phrase, with a salutary
fear; and it might teach our posterity what we as good citizens must
desire them to know — the virtues which exalt nation^, and the vices
which destroy them ; — that so they may practise the one, and avoid the
other.
September, 1844.
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE
AND
INDEX.
PART I.
Ancient His- B. C.
v«^'~>^,*«**/ 4004 The Creation, -.-',"""
2348 The Deluge, -
" Division of Countries among Noah's Sons,
2300 The Tower of Babel, and the Confusion of Languages,
2267 Tyre founded, - -
2204 Babylon founded by Nimrod, -
2188 Egyptian Monarchy founded by Menes or Mizraim,
2159 Nineveh built, and the Assyrian Empire founded,
2085 Shepherd Kings, .....
1921 Calling of Abraham, (from Haran,)
1897 Sodom and the cities of the plain destroyed,
1729 Joseph sold — 1706 Jacob goes down to Egypt, -
1571 Moses born. (He is the first of historians and lawgivers.
1491 Red Sea passed, .....
1856 Argos and Sicyon founded, ...
1556 Athens founded. — 1522 Amphictyonic Council, -
1493 Letters brought into Greece,
Page
- 34
- 35
- 36
- 36
- 46
- 36
- 37
- 37
- 38
. 39
- 40
- 40
- 40
- 41
- 41
- 42
1491 Institution of the Passover, - - - - - 41
" The Moral Law given, - - - - - 43
1452 Moses dies. — (1453 Olympic Games begin.,) - - - 44
1451 Land of Canaan conquered and divided under Joshua, - - 44
1443 Joshua dies— Reign of the Judges begins, - - - 44
1400 Laws of Minos. — (1406 Deborah and Barak reign 40 years,) - 48
1400 Teucer first king of Troy.— 1359 (Gideon reigns 40 years,) - 49
1326 Theseus, -------- 48
1263 Argonautic Expedition, led by Jason, who succeeds by the aid of
Medea, - 49
1250 Sesostris reigns in Egypt. He conquers the south-west part of
Asia, - - - - - - - -46
1173 Siege of Troy begins.— (1148 Death of Eli— Samuel,) - - 49
1095 Saul made King, - - - - - - 45
1083 War of the Heraclidae, - - - - - - 50
1082 Cheops builds the first Pyramid, - - - - 46
(vii)
Vlll
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Jlncient His. B. C.
^»^v^w 1055 David founds a kingdom, and is the greatest of sacred poets,
" Ionian Colonies founded in Asia Minor, -
1045 Codrus dies— Medon first Archon,
1004 Solomon builds the Temple, ....
Page
- 45
- 51
- 51
- 45
980 Death of Solomon, - - - - - -52
975 Jews divided into the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, - - 52
914 Jehoshaphat's Alliance with Ahab, - - - - 54
870 Carthage founded by Dido, - - - - - 55
884 Lycurgus gives laws to Sparta, - - - - 55
886 finds the poems of Homer. (Four cities of Greece con-
tend for the honor of his birth,) - - - - 55
(776 Beginning of the Olympiads.) (Cycles of four years,) -
752 Founding of Rome by Romulus. (The Sabine Women seized,) 89
747 Destruction of the first Assyrian Empire, - - - 59
" Tiglath Pileser king of Nineveh, - - - - 59
743 First Messenian war, - - - - - - 63
721 Shalmaneser carries captive the Ten Tribes, - - - 60
717 Sennacherib's host destroyed, - - - - - 60
716 Numa Pompilius, - - - - - - 89
710 Dejoces founds the Median Empire, - - - - 62
685 Second Messenian War, - - - - - - 63
677 Esarhaddon takes Jerusalem, - - - - - 60
672 Combat of the Horatii and Curiatii, - - - - 90
658 Phraortes conquers Persia, - - - - - 62
621 Laws of Draco, - - - - - - - 63
624 Laws of Solon, - - - - - - - 63
612 Nineveh destroyed, - - - - - - 62
609 MEGIDDO, Egyptians defeat the Jews, - - - 61
587 Nebuchadnezzar takes Jerusalem and destroys the first Temple, 61
585 He takes Tyre, - - - - - - - 61
560 Pisistratus makes himself Tyrant of Athens, collects the first
Public Library of Greece, - - - - - 64
560 The rich Crossus is king of Lydia, - - - - 65
" Pythagoras' School at Crotona, - - - - - 76
559 Cyrus unites Media and Persia, - - - - - 65
548 THYMBEA — Cyrus is victorious and gains the wealth and king-
dom of Croesus, - - - - -66
538 Cyrus takes Babylon — takes Jerusalem, - - -66
529 is killed in Scythia, - - - - -66
525-515 The second Temple built by Ezra and Nehemiah, - - 96
521 Hippias and Hipparchus, - - - - - - 65
510 The Council of Five Hundred take the place of the Senate es-
tablished by Solon, - - - - - - 65
509 Expulsion of Tarquin from Rome, - - - - 91
496 Darius invades Scythia, and Megabysus, his general, conquers
Thrace and Macedon, - - - - - 67
498 First Tribunes of the People at Rome, - - - - 93
494 Greeks take Sardis from the Persians and burn it, - - 68
491 Coriolanus joins the Volsci, - - - - - 93
490 MARATHON, Athenians under Miltiades, conquer the Persians
under Mardonius, - - - - - - 70
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE,
IX
Ancient His.
B. C. pAGE.
484 Aristides banished, but recalled, - - - - -71
480 Xerxes' Great Expedition, - - - - - 70
" THERMOPYLJE, Leonidas sacrifices himself with 300 Spartans, 71
" SAL AMIS, The Grecian fleets defeat the Persian, - - 73
" Flight of Xerxes, - - - - - - 73
479 Mardonius burns Athens, - - - - - 74
" PLATJEA— MYCALE, Greeks defeat the Persians, and drive
them from Europe, - - - - - - 74
470 River EURYMEDON, Cimon defeats the Persians, - - 75
451 Decemvirs created to compile laws for Rome, - - - 94
450 Cincinnatus Dictator, - - - - - - 95
449 Death of Virginia by the hand of her father, - - - 94
448 First Sacred War in Greece, - - - - - 77
445 Nehemiah rebuilds the walls of Jerusalem, - - - 96
444 Brilliant age of Greece. Pericles supreme at Athens — Phidias —
Apelles — Herodotus, - - - - - - 76
440 Socrates teaches at Athens, - - . - - - 75
401 Xenophon's Retreat, - - - - - - 81
436 The Corinthian War, - - - - - . 77
431 The Peloponnesian War, - - - ( - - 77
414 Alcibiades. — Athenian disasters at Syracuse, - - - 79
408 Sanballat builds a temple on Mount Gerizim at Samaria, - 96
405 MGOS-POTAMOS, Spartans gain the ascendency over the
Athenians, - - - - - - - 80
404 Thirty Tyrants at Athens, - - - - - 80
395 Veii taken.— Camillus, - - - - - 95
390 First descent of the Gauls under Brennus, take Rome, - - 95
" Plato teaches at Athens, - - - - - 75
380 Pelopidas delivers Thebes from the Spartans, - - - 82
371 LEUCTRA, Epaminondas, the Theban, defeats the Spartans, 83
367 Dionysius the Elder, - - - - - .105
362 MANTINEA, Epaminondas is killed, and Thebes loses supre-
macy, - - - - - - - 83
330 Aristotle teaches at Athens, - - ' - - - 75
338 CHJEROISEA, Philip of Macedon makes himself master of
Greece, - - - - - - - 85
334 GRANICUS, Alexander the Great defeats the Persians, - 86
333 ISSUS, Alexander again defeats the Persians — takes Damascus
and Tyre — conquers Egypt, - - - -86
332 Alexander visits Jerusalem, - - - - - 97
332 ARBELA, Alexander defeats Darius, and becomes master of the
whole Persian empire, - - - - -86
323 Death of Alexander the Great, - - - - 99
322 Death of Demosthenes, - - - - - -102
301 IP SITS, Antigonus and his son defeated by four of Alexander's
generals, who now divide his empire among themselves, - 100
" Ptolemy assumes the government of Egypt, - - - 1-00
" Seleucus begins to reign in Syria, - - . - - 100
291 FORKS OF THE CAUDINE, the Samnites oblige the Ro-
mans to pass under the yoke, ----- 104
290 Samnites subdued bv the Romans, - - - - 104
2
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Ancient His. B. C. PAGE
v-^V"^-' 283 Etrurians conquered, ...... 104
280 P AND 0 SI A, Pyrrhus defeats the Romans, - - -104
279 Second invasion of the Gauls, who finally settle in Galatia, - 102
275 BENEVENTUM, the Romans defeat Pyrrhus, and subjugate
all Italy, - - 105
264 First Punic War, 106
260 Zadok founds the sect of Sadducees, - - - -119
251 The Achaean League — Arams, ..... 103
246 Arsaces I. founds a dynasty in Parthia, - - - 117
222 CLUSIUM, the Romans defeat the Gauls, and add to their do-
minions Cisalpine Gaul, ..... 108
206 Philopaemen, the last general of the Achaean League, - - 103
219 Hannibal takes Saguntum, ..... 108
" Second Punic War commences, ..... 108
218 Hannibal's passage of the Alps, - 109
" TICINUS, Hannibal defeats the Roman army under the consul
P. C. Scipio, - - - - - - - 109
" TR EB I A, Hannibal's second victory, - - - -110
217 Lake THRASYMENUS, Hannibal's third victory, - - 110
216 Fabius Maximus, - - - - - - 110
" CA.NNJE, 70,000 Romans slain, - - - - 111
202 ZAMA, Hannibal defeated by Scipio Africanus, - - 112
198 The Jewish Sanhedrim instituted, - - - - 118
192 THERM OP YLJE, Antiochus the Great defeated by the Romans, 112
168 PYDNA, Paulus Emilius defeats Perseus, and the Romans be-
come masters of Macedonia, - - - - - 113
147 The Maccabees oppose Antiochus Epiphanes, - - -118
146 Third Punic War closed by the destruction of Carthage, - 115
" Corinth destroyed and Greece subdued by Rome, - -119
133 Attalus III. bequeaths Pergamus to Rome, - - - 116
133-121 The Gracchi, - - - - - - 121
121 Mithridates the Great becomes king of Pontus, - - - 117
112 Jugurthine War— Metellus— Marius— Sylla, - - - 121
102 AIX, Marius defeats the Teutones. K. 200,000; pris. 90,000, - 122
" VERONA, he defeats the Cimbri. K. 140,000 ; pris. 60,000 - 122
91 The " Social War" costs Rome 300,000 lives, - - - 122
86 CHMRONEA and ORCHOMENUS, Sylla defeats Mithri-
datus in the First Mithridatic War, - - - - 123
87 Marius tyrannizes at Rome, - - - - . 123
86 Marius dies — Sylla returns to Rome to slaughter and destroy, 124
78 TARRACO, Sertorius in Spain defeats the Roman consuls.
Perpenna assassinates him, ..... 124
" Spartacus in " The Servile War" defeated by Crassus, - - 124
69 TIGRANOCERTA.—68 ARTAXATA, Lucullus, the Roman
consul, defeats Mithridates and Tigranes in the f • Second Mith-
ridatic War," - - - - - - - 125
66 EUPHRATES, Pompey totally defeats Mithridates, - - 125
64 Pompey establishes the Roman power in Pontus, Armenia, and
Judea. ... - 125
" Cataline's conspiracy defeated by Cicero, - - - 126
60 Julius Cjesar, Pompey, and Crassus, form the First Trium-
virate, ....... 126
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
3C!
Middle Hist. B. C.
N«^~V*"^' 55 Caesar commands in Gaul — invades Britain,
54 Crassus invades Parthia — falls into a snare
finally his life, ....
49 Caesar passes the Rubicon,
48 July 20, PHARSALIA, Caesar defeats the party of the Senate,
commanded by Pompey, -
47 ZELA, Caesar subdues Pharnaces of Pontus, (" veni, vidi,
vici.") -----...
" Is made Perpetual Dictator, -
" Causes Carthage and Corinth to be rebuilt, -
44 March 15, Caesar Assassinated, -
43 Second Triumvirate — Octavius, Mark Antony, and Lepidus,
" Arsaces XIV. of Parthia, aids Brutus and Cassius,
42 PHILIP PI, Octavius and Antony defeat them, -
41 Cleopatra in her galley sails up the Cydnus to Tarsus, -
31 ACTIUM, Octavius defeats the fleet of Antony and Cleopatra,
and subjugates Egypt, - - -
" Octavius, with the title of Augustus, master of the civilized
world, .......
*' Universal Peace, - - - - - • .
4 BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST, -
Page.
- 127
loses his army, and
- 127
- 129
130
131
131
131
132
134
134
134
134
136
136
137
137
PART IL
A.D.
Birth of Christ, (supposed 4 years before the vulgar era,) - 144
9 Herman, a barbarian, defeats Varus the Roman general, - 140
14 Tiberius succeeds Augustus, ..... 141
31 Crucifixion of our Saviour — His Resurrection, - - - 145
" Descent of the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost, - - 145
34 Martyrdom. of Stephen, - - - - - - 145
35 Conversion of Paul, - - - - - - 145
37 Caligula succeeds Tiberius. — 41 Claudius, - - - 142
54 Nero — 64 First Persecution of the Christians, - - - 142
59 Sertorius Paulinus destroys the Druids in Britain. — Defeats queen
Boadicea, ....... 149
64 Jews under Gessius Glorus rebel, .... 146
65 Martyrdom of St Peter and St. Paul at Rome, - - - 146
69 The Praetorian Guards kill Galba and make Otho emperor —
Vitellius succeeds, .... . 143
" Vespasian, governor of Judea, made emperor, - - - 143
70 Titus takes Jerusalem.— 1,100,000 perish, - - -147
78 Julius Agricola defeats Galgacus in Scotland, - - - 149
80 Herculanaeum and Pompeii destroyed by an eruption of Vesuvius.
(Elder Pliny is suffocated by the noxious vapour.) - - 148
98 Domitian. — (95 Second Persecution of the Christians,)
" to 117 Trajan carries the Roman empire to its greatest Jimit, 150
107 Third Persecution of the Christians, - - - - 150
" Martyrdom of Ignatius, (bishop of Antioch,) - - -150
Xll
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Middle Hist. A. D. Page
v^-n^-^ 117 Hadrian relinquishes the conquests of Trajan beyond the Danube
except Dacia, -------
118 Fourth Persecution of the Christians, -
135 Final Destruction of the Jews, who revolt under Barochab— " the
son of a star," ......
138 Titus Antoninus Pius — a good and peaceful man,
161 Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. His reign disturbed, and his life
lost by means of barbarian inroads, . . . -
180 Commodus gives money to the barbarians to buy peace, -
193 Didius Julianus buys the empire of the Praetorians,
" Septimius Severus restores military discipline ; builds a wall from
Solway to Tyne, in Scotland, -
211-222 Four emperors — Caracalla and Geta, Macrinus, and the
infamous Heliogabulus, -
212 Fifth Persecution of the Christians, under Caracalla,
222 Alexander Severus, (Julia Mammsea his mother.) His virtues
vainly strive against a downward age,
226 Parthian empire, with the Arsacides, extinct. The Persian
revives under the Sassanides, of whom Artaxerxes is the
first, -------
235 Maximtnus, the Gothic giant, (causes the Sixth Persecution of the
Christians,) ------
236-49 Roman emperors — the two Gordians, father and son, Maxi-
mus and Balbinus — Philip the Arabian,
249 Decius. The Goths for the first time swarm upon the frontiers
of the empire, -------
250 Seventh Persecution of the Christians. — Decius,
253 Emilianus — 254 Valerian, -----
257 Eighth Persecution of the Christians, - - - -
268 Valerian invades Persia and is made prisoner by Sapor, -
270 Nineteen usurpers — war, pestilence and famine swept away one
half the inhabitants of the Roman empire. Claudius, a vir-
tuous sovereign, succeeds, -
" Aurelian contracts the empire on the north ; conquers the bar-
barians, -----..
" CHALONS, defeats Tetricus, and establishes his authority over
the west, -......_
272 PALMYRA, defeats Zenobia and establishes his authority in
the east, .......
274 The Ninth Persecution of the Christians, ...
275 Tacitus, an aged and worthy senator, made emperor,
277 Florianus — Probus checks the barbarians,
282 Carus, Carinus, Numerian, -
284 Diocletian makes Nicomedia his seat — takes Maximianus as a
colleague, who holds his court at Milan,
296 Diocletian humbles the Persians — makes Tiridates king of Ar-
menia, - - - - - -
303 The, Tenth and most severe Persecution of the Christians, when
Diocletian burns 600 in a church in Nicomedia,
304 Diocletian and his colleague abdicate, -
" Constantius and Galerius succeed — several other emperors —
great destruction of life by civil war, - - - 162-3
150
162
147
150
151
151
151
152
152
162
- 152
- 153
153
154
155
162
155
162
156
156
157
157
158
162
159
159
160
160
161
162
162
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Xlll
A. D. Page
323 Constantine sole emperor, makes Christianity the religion of the
Roman empire. Makes Byzantium (Constantinople) the seat
of the empire, ...... 163
325 First Ecclesiastical Council at Nice, condemn the opinions of
Arius, - - - - . . - - 164
(321 The heathen temples destroyed,)
337 Constantine, Constantius, Constans — sons of Constantine,
but very inferior, .... . 164
360 Julian the Apostate. An able man. (Some reckon his con-
tinued ill usage of the Christians as the eleventh and twelfth
persecutions.) He restores paganism and vainly endeavors to
rebuild the temple, ..... 165-6
363 Jovian. — 364 Valentinian and Valens. Christianity restored, 167
375 Gratian, - - - - . - -168
376 Valens allows the Visigoths, (1,000,000 in number— 200,000 war-
riors,) who are driven by the Huns under Attila, to cross the
Danube and settle in the empire, .... 168
378 ADRIANOPLE, the Visigoths under Fritrgern, aided by the
Ostrogoths, defeat Valens with the loss of two-thirds of his
army, - - - - - - - - 169
388 Theodosius, the last sole master of the Roman world. Domina-
tion of the church, - - - - - - 170
395 Theodosius divides the Roman Empire into the Eastern and
Western, - - « - - - - 171
402-3 POLLENTIA and VERONA. Stilicho the general of Ho-
norius, (Western emperor,) defeats Alaric, leader of the
Visigoths, - - - - . . -174
" Honorius removes his capital from Milan to Ravenna, - - 174
406 Invasion of the German nations under Radagaisus. Repulsed
from Italy, but make themselves masters of Gaul, which is
lost to the Roman empire, .... 174-5
410 Alaric takes and sacks Rome. Dies and is buried in the bed of a
stream, .......
412 Adolphus marries Placidia, and begins the kingdom of the Visi-
goths on each side of the Pyrenees, ....
427 Genseric, leader of the Vandals, establishes a kingdom in
Africa, - - -
428 Britain is abandoned by the Romans, ....
449 Hengist and Horsa, with the Saxons, arrive in Britain, -
452 CHALONS. Mi'ms defeats Atilla and the Huns, by the aid of
Theodoric, king of the Visigoths, ....
" Venice founded, .......
453 The death of Attila, which ends the great empire of the Huns, -
455 Genseric takes and pillages Rome. Treasures and vessels of the
temple of Jerusalem brought to Rome by Titus, shipped for
Carthage and lost at sea, .....
461-76 Count Recimer, the real sovereign, puts up several Roman
emperors, of whom Augustulus Romulus is the last,
476 Odoacer, the chief of the Heruli, becomes king >f Rome,
496 Clovis converted to Christianity — founds the kingdom of the
Franks. (Introduces the Feudal System,) - - - 187
175
175
176
185
185
177
219
177
178
179
179
XIV
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Middle Hist. A. D. Page
v^^/-^/ 493 Theodoric the Great overcomes Odoacer, and founds "the king-
dom of the Ostrogoths" in Italy, - 188
527 Justinian, emperor of the east, ..... 180
529 The first Monastery of the west at Monte Cassino, near Naples,
533 Justinian's Code of Laws, ..... 181
" Belisarius, his general, conquers Gelimer, and puts an end to the
kingdom of the Vandals in Africa, .... 180
553 Narses, another of his generals, defeats Totila, and puts an end
to the kingdom of the Ostrogoths in Italy, - - 181-89
" Kingdom of the Lombards founded by Alboin, - - - 189
609 Ina, king of the West Saxons, assembles the Wittegemot, the
germ of the British parliament, .... 186
" Mahomet begins his alleged mission, - - - - 192
610 Heraclius, emperor of the east, invades Chosroes of Persia, who
besieges Constantinople, ..... 183
622 The Flight of Mahomet from Mecca to Medina,
633 The Caliphate embraces nearly all which the Romans had pos-
sessed in the east, ......
636 The caliph Omar conquers Egypt and destroys the Alexandrian
library, .......
651 Yezdegerd, the last of the Sassanides, defeated by the caliph
Othman, and Persia becomes a part of the caliphate, -
661 Caliph Moawiyah invests Constantinople, -
667 The invention of the Greek fire saves the city from the Mahome-
193
194
195
195
197
197
196
709 The Saracens conquer the Moors of Africa,
713 XERES. Tarik, at the head of the Saracens from Africa, de-
feats Roderick, the last of the Gothic kings, and makes Spain
a part of the caliphate, .....
714 TOURS. Charles Martel gains a great battle, and stops the
progress of the Saracens, .....
741 The Greek church from opposition to image worship, separates
from the Roman or Latin church. (Final separation, 800,) - 198
754 Pepin takes the exarchate of Ravenna and gives it to the pope,
which is the beginning of the popedom,
757 Abdalrahman holds his splendid court at Cordova,
774 Charlemagne defeats Desiderius and puts an end to the " king-
dom of the Lombards," .....
781 The infamous Irene restores image-worship in the Greek church,
785 Charlemagne subdues the Saxons. He conquers the Saracens in
Spain as far as to the Ebro, - - -
196
196
202
197
201
198
. 202
800 The Coronation of Charlemagne,
" Haroun al Raschid, sixth of the Abassides, caliph — his capital
Bagdad. The Arabians in the east and in Spain, the most
learned people in the world, - - -
827 Saxon Heptarchy united under Egbert, - -
841 Downfall of the Empire of Charlemagne,
842 Kenneth McAlpine unites the sovereignty of the Picts and Scots,
865 The Danish sea-kings begin to infest England, -
877 Alfred, totally defeated by the Danes, disguises himself,
203
223
208
204
214
208
209
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XV
- 209
206
- 207
215
210
224
207
211
211
- 212
A. D. Page
878 ETHANDUNE. Alfred entirely defeats the Danes, - -209
900 Alfred dies, baring been the founder of British jurisprudence, lite-
rature, and its naval power,
905 The Normans, under Rollo, take Neustria, afterwards called
Normandy, .......
912 Five German nations confederate and elect an emperor, i. e. Con-
rad of Franconia, - - - . .
936 Otho the Great extends the German power over Hungary, Bo-
hemia, and Italy, ......
950 St. Dunstan establishes monachism in England, -
961 Ghazni becomes the seat of an empire of which Mahmoud is the
most powerful sultan, ------
987 Hugh Capet the founder of a new dynasty in France,
1003 Massacre of the Danes by Ethelred, which
1013 Sweyn avenges and becomes the first Danish king of England, -
1017 ASSINGTON. Canute defeats Edmund Ironside, and be-
comes king of England — he marries Emma of Normandy,
widow of Ethelred — conquers Norway and Sweden, -
1035 Sancho the Great unites the small Christian kingdoms in the north
of Spain, .......
1056 Henry IV. of Germany, and the popes engaged in the War of the
Investitures, .......
1060 Kingdom of Naples begun by Robert (Guiscard) of Normandy, -
1066 HASTINGS. William of Normandy conquers Harold, and be-
comes the first of the Norman kings of England. About this
time chivalry (knighthood) began in Normandy,
i he Turkish family of Seljouk take the principal eastern pro-
vinces of the caliphate. The caliphs lose their power,
Hildebrand, (Gregory IV.) the most haughty of all the popes,
humbles Henry IV. of Germany, ....
" The Turks take Jerusalem and maltreat the pilgrims — they take
all Asia Minor, ......
1082 DUEAZZO. Robert Guiscard defeats Alexius Comnenus,
1090 " The Old Man of the Mountains" establishes the " Assassins,"
1095 Peter the Hermit preaches a crusade against the Turks — pope
Urban— Council of Clermont, ....
1096 First army of crusaders, under Walter the Pennyless, are de-
stroyed, - - -
1099 Jerusalem taken by the crusaders, -
1074
1076
221
216
219
- 213
224
217
224
219
244
228
228
231
1100 The Commencement of the Crusades,* - - - 225
" The kingdom of Jerusalem founded, and Godfrey of Buillon, the
principal leader, made king, ..... 231
1130 Scholastic Philosophy attains its highest point by the teaching of
Peter Abelard, - - - - - - 294
1141 Popes and emperors of Germany carry on their wars for supre-
macy, under the party watch-words of Guelphs and Ghib-
belines, - - - - - - - 233
* In strictness, the era of the Crusades, like the Christian era, commenced four
years before the time ordinarily reckoned. But it is much more convenient to the
memory, and sufficiently correct, to state it at the beginning of the century.
XVI
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Middle Hist.
A.D
1145
1147
1154
1162
1164
1170
1172
1187
1188
1189
1192
1202
1215
1217
1215
1228
1209-!
1236
1240
1241
1248
1253
1265
1270
1273
1285
1282
1283
1296
1308
1314
1315
1346
1348
1355
Noureddin makes himself master of Aleppo, Damascus, &c, -
The Second Crusade (to little effect,) by Louis VII. of France,
Henry II., son of Maud (d. of Henry I.,) and Geoffry Plantage-
net, head of the house of Plantagenet, - -
Milan destroyed by Frederic Barbarossa, -
Jenghiz Khan, the greatest of conquerors and murderers,
Henry II. causes the death of Thomas-a-Becket,
Henry II. conquers Ireland, -
TIBERIAS. Saladin defeats the Christians and takes Jerusa-
lem, which leads to the ....
Third Crusade, undertaken by Richard I., Philip Augustus, and
Frederic Barbarossa, ------
Siege of Acre, begun by Philip Augustus,
Richard I. takes Cyprus, ------
AZOTUS. Richard, the lion-hearted, defeats Saladin,
Fourth Crusade. Alexius Angelus asks the crusaders to rein-
state his father at Constantinople. Dandolo, doge of Venice,
and Baldwin of Flander3, take Constantinople, and Baldwin
becomes the first Latin emperor, -
Council at the Lateran, which directs secular princes to extirpate
heretics, - -
Fifth Crusade, by Andrew II. of Hungary, (fruitless,)
Magna Charta, signed by king John, at Runnymede,
Sixth Crusade, by Frederic II. of Germany, who makes him-
self king of Jerusalem, - - -
23 Crusade against the Albigenses, Waldenses, and Vallenses,
headed by Simon de Montfort— 1,000,000 killed,
Paper money introduced from China into Italy, -
Cimabue founds the Italian school in Painting,
Hanseatic League, ......
Seventh Crusade, by Louis IX. (Saint,) — fruitless,
The Sicilians massacre the French — ("the Sicilian Vespers,'') -
The first regular English parliament,
Eighth and last Crusade, by St. Louis and Edward I.
Page
- 239
234
236
233
243
237
236
- 239
239
240
240
240
241
- 297
- 245
- 257
- 445
- 249
- 292
- 296
- 245
- 249
- 250
- 259
249-59
Rodolph of Hapsburg (Guelph,) becomes emperor of Germany
The founder of the house of Austria,
Alponso VI. of Spain and the Cid take Toledo, -
Edward I. conquers Wales, - - -
He adjudges the Scottish crown to Baliol,
Edward I. wages war against Scotland, and is opposed by Wal
lace, who is taken and executed,
William Tell shoots Gesler, and the Swiss rise against the
Austrians, -------
BANNOCK-BURN. Bruce defeats Edward II., and frees
Scotland, .......
MORGARTEN. The Swiss defeat the Austrians and establish
their independence, ......
Rienzi attempts to restore the ancient republic in Rome,
Great splendor of the Moorish kingdom of Granada. The Al-
hambra completed, . . . - -
Constitution of Germany, called the "Golden Bull," fixes the
number of electors, and makes the electorates hereditary
245
273
259
260
- 260
246
262
246
283
- 273
- 247
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Mddle Hist. A. D
XV11
Page
1346
1347
1356
1369
1384
1402
1414
1414
1416
1417
1419
1420
1424
(1438
1444
1453
1459
1460
1461
1467
1471
HALIDON-HILL. Baliol restored to the throne of Scotland^
by Edward III. and Scottish nobles, -
CRESS Y. Edward III. of England defeats the French. (He
claims, through his mother Isabella, the French crown, and his
invasion begins a struggle of 140 years.)
Artillery first used at the battle of Cressy, (on the side of the
English,) .
Edward III. takes Calais. (The six self-devoted burghers re"
leased by the intercession of the queen Philippa )
POICTIERS. Edward the Black Prince (son of Edward III.,
defeats and makes prisoner John, king of France,
Henry of Trastamara conquers Peter the Cruel. ' (His poste-
rity, in two separate branches, govern Christian Spain till the
two are reunited in Ferdinand and Isabella,)
John Wickliffe, the great Reformer of England. (His followers
called Lollards, are persecuted,)
ANGORA. Tamerlane, who had overrun Asia, defeats Bajazel
the Ottoman Turk, .....
John Huss, of Bohemia, proclaims the corruptions of the Romish
church— is condemned (by the council of Constance) and burnt.
(Huss goes to the council under the pledge of a safe conduct,
which is shamefully violated,) -
AGINCOURT. Henry V. conquers the French, '.
Jerome of Prague is burnt for teaching the doctrines of the Re-
formation, - . ■ .
James I., the royal bard of Scotland, released from prison,
John of Burgundy murdered in the king's presence, at the bridge
of Montereau, -
Treaty of Troyes, by which Henry of England is to marry Ca-
therine of France and inherit that kingdom, -
The " Maid of Orleans" delivers Charles VII. from the English
Power, - - . . . . - - 254
Discovery of the art of Printing, when Laurence Roster of
Harlaem, and in 1442 John Faust, performed imperfect speci-
mens. John Guttenberg invented cut metal types, and in 1444,
Peter Schaffer cast the first metal types in matrices, and was
therefore the inventor of complete printing.)
The Turks under Amurath gain a great battle over Ladislaus,
John Hunniades and Scanderbeg, and establish themselves in
Europe, - 288
Constantinople taken by Mahomet II., which is the final downfal
of the Greek empire, - - . ... . 289
ST. ALBANS. The second battle in the " Wars of the Roses."
The York, or white rose party, defeat the Lancaster, or red
rose party, at the head of which is Margaret, queen'of Henry VI. 269
The republic of Florence subjugated by the Medici, . . 282
Louis XL humbles the French nobles, - - . .255
Charles the Bold, of Burgundy, the richest sovereign of Europe, 256
TE WKSB UR Y. The Yorkists, after many^battles of the white
and red rose parties with alternate success, finally defeat Mar-
garet and slay her son.— (1483 Edward V., 14 years old, king.
His uncle, Richard, protector,) - . . .271
263
251
251
- 251
2"52
274
265
287
248
253
248
296
- 253
254
XV 111
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Modem His.
A. D. Page
1476 GRANS ON— MOR AT. Charles the Bold invades, and is de-
feated by the brave Swiss, ..... 256
1478 The Swiss erect a singular monument on the field of Morat, - 300
1479 Marriage of Isabella of Castile and Leon, to Ferdinand of Arra-
gon, by which these kingdoms are united, - - 276
1480 The Inquisition established at Seville in Spain,' - -. -278
1481-92 War with the Moors of Grenada, which ends in the conquest
of their kingdom by Ferdinand and Isabella, - - -280
1485 BOS WORTH-FIELD. Richard III. defeated and slain. Henry
VII. crowned on the field. (He being a Lancasterian, marries
Elizabeth the heiress of York, and thus ends the war of the
roses.) - - - - - • - - " - 272
1486 Bartholomew IHas discovers the Cape of Good Hope, - - 304
1492 The Jews (about 160,000) banished from Spain, - - - 279
PART III.
A. D.
1492 Discovery of America, - - - - - - 302
1493 Columbus' Second Voyage, contest with the natives, and bad
conduct of the colonists, .... - 303
1494 Charles VIII. of France invades and takes possession of Naples, 309
1495 League of Venice against Charles VIII., - - - 309
" PARMA. Charles VIII. defeats the allies and returns to France, 309
1497 The Cabots, in the service of the English, the first discoverers of
the continent at Labrador, - - - - - 304
" Alonzo de Ojeda, carries over Amerigo Vespucio, - - 304
1498 Vasco de Gama, in the service of the Portuguese, discovers the
passage to India round the Cape of Good Hope, - - 304
" Columbus' Third Voyage. He discovers the continent, - -304
1499 Louis XII. of France, marries Anne of Britanny. Conquers
Milan, - - - - ' - - - - 309
" Cabral discovers for the Portuguese, Brazil, - - -304
1500 Bovadilla sent out to supersede Columbus, who is' sent home in
chains, -------- 305
" league of Partition, between France and Spain, for dividing
Naples, - - - - - - - 310
1502-4 Columbus' Fourth and Last Voyage, - - - - 305
1503 Pope Alexander II. dies a horrid death by drinking poison he had
caused to be mingled for another, - - - - 310
" Julius II., the warlike pope, succeeds him, - - - 310
1508 League of Cambray. Instigated by pope Julius II., by which
Venice is basely crushed, ----- 310
1509 Henry VIII. of England marries Catharine* daughter of Ferdi-
nand and Isabella, and widow of his brother Arthur, - - 322
1510 Holy League. The pope, the Venetians, Spanish and Swiss,
league against France, .... - 310
« ' RA VENN A. The forces of Louis XII., under his nephew Gas-
ton de Foix, defeat the allies, ----- 310
1512 Ferdinand, the Catholic, conquers Navarre from John D'Albret, 311
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XIX
Modern His. AD t>
^' XJm Page
1513 FLODDEN-FIELB. James IV. of Scotland defeated by the
English under Surrey, •---.„ 323
1515 MARIGNAN. Francis L of France, defeats the Swiss in the
service of Milan and recovers that city, - . -311
1516 Charles V., grandson of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic,
succeeds to the united crowns of Spain and Navarre, and in the
right of his father to Austria, Burgundy, and the Low
Countries, ---...
1519 Reformation begun by Luther in Germany, and Zu'nglius lr
Switzerland, ----.._
1520 Conquest of Mexico by Hernando Cortez,
1521 Luther appears before the Diet at Worms,
1522 Pope Adrian VI. (tutor of the emperor Charles V.,) undertakes to
reform the church, ......
1523 Christian the Wicked, expelled from Sweden by Gustavus Vasa,
1525 PAVIA. Francis I. defeated by the troops of Charles V., now
made emperor of Germany. Francis carried a prisoner to
Spain, ----.-._
1526 Treaty of Madrid, by which Francis regained his freedom-
violated — caused another war, - 312
1526 Second Holy league, against the emperor Charles V., - 312
1529 Reformers protest against the decrees of the Diets of Worms and
Spires, and are called Protestants, ....
1531 iLeague of Smalkald. In which the protestant states of Ger-
many form a political alliance,
1525-32 Henry VIII. seeks of the pope a divorce from his virtuous wife,
Catharine of Arragon, that he may marry Anne Boleyn, which
causes the English reformation, ....
1534-5 Shameful excesses of the Anabaptists, under Munzer, at Muhl-
hausen— 50,000 lives lost— Munzer slain in battle,
1535 Charles V. defeats the pirates of the Barbary Coast ; releases
20,000 Christian captives ; takes Tunis, - . . 314
" Sir Thomas More executed for declining to give his opinion touch-
ing the divorce, and the supremacy over the church claimed
- 311
n
- 317
- 307
- 318
319
348
312
319
- 320
324
320
by the king. Bishop Fisher also executed, -
1540 Ignatius Loyola obtains the sanction of the pope and founds the
order of Jesuits, ......
1542 HADDONRIG. James V. of Scotland defeats the English,
but at Solway Moss his troops flee shamefully, and he dies of
chagrin a few days after the birth of his daughter, afterwards
Mary queen of Scots, -
(1543 Died Nicholas Copernicus, a native of Thorn, in Poland,
teacher of the true solar system,)
1543 Francis I. of France dies, leaving his crown to his son Henry II.
1544 Peace of Crespi. The French give up Italy and close the wars
between Charles and Francis, -
1545 The Council of Trent, - - . .
1546 Ivan the Terrible, of the house of Ruric, czar of Russia,
1547 Edward VI. succeeds his father, Henry VIII.— 1549 Liturgy
completed, .......
1552 Peace of Passau, establishes protestantism,
1553 The bloody Mary, queen of England., -
320
325
■ 323
321
315
321
393
326
322
326
XX
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Modern His. A. D. PAGE
^^~v~«^> 1555 John Rogers burnt at Smithfield as a heretic ; also the bishops
Latimer, Ridley, Hooper and Cranmer, and nearly 300 others, 327
1556 Charles V. abdicates in favor of his son Philip, - 322
1558 Ferdinand I. succeeds his brother Charles V. as emperor of Ger-
many, - - - -- - - - 345
1558 Elizabeth of England succeeds Mary, - - - -327
1559 Peace of Chateau CambresiSj .... 327
1559 Francis II., husband of Mary queen of Scots, succeeds Henry II.
in France, 337
1560 Charles IX. succeeds in France,— his mother, Catharine de Medici,
regent, - - - - - - - - 338
1561 Mary queen of Scots returns to Scotland, - - - 330
" John Knox heads the protestant reformers of Scotland, - -331
1563 DREUX. The catholics of France, under the dukes of Guise
and Monfmorenci, defeat the protestants under Conde and
Coligni, - 339
1565 Mary queen of Scots marries Darnley, - - - -331
1566 The Holy league, formed in France, for the extirpation of
heresy, -------- 339
" Murder of Rizzio, 331
Murder of Darnley by Bothwell, whom Mary marries, - -331
The Netherlands revolt against Philip of Spain, - - - 334
ST. DENNIS.— 1569 JARNAC.—MONCONTOUR. Pro-
testants, in France, defeated by the catholics, - 339-40
1567
1568
1568 Mary queen of Scots takes refuge in England after the defeat of
her forces at Glasgow, - - -
1571 The Turks conquer Cyprus, ... - -
1572 August 17. Marriage of Henry of Navarre with Margaret,
daughter of Catharine de Medici, -
" August 24. The Massacre of St. Bartholomew,
1572 In Poland, the accession of Sigismund II., the last of the dynasty
of the Jagellons, ......
1572 Sir Francis Drake circumnavigates the globe,
1574 Remorse and death of Charles IX. Succeeded by his brother the
duke of Anjou, Henry III
1576 Kepler and Tycho Brahe, encouraged by Rodolph II., emperor
of Germany,
" The Jj& ague. (Wars occurring between the protestants, com-
manded by Henry of Navarre, and catholics, Iby the Guises,
called wars of the League,) - - - - -
1578 Queen Elizabeth grants to Sir H. Gilbert, the first patent granted
by an English sovereign to lands in America, -
1579 Commencement of the republic of Holland in the union of seven
provinces, .......
1580 Portugal united to Spain, ------
1587 Sir Francis Walsingham, by causing the Spanish bills to be pro-
tested at Genoa, hinders the Spanish armada a year, -
1587 Mary queen of Scots executed, -
1588 Destruction of the Spanish armada, . . - .
1589 Henry III. assassinated, names as successor, Henry of Navarre,
332
346
341
341
333
- 341
- 345
341
334
335
337
333
332
333
342
ARQUES.— 1590 IVRY. Henry IV. defeats the leaguers, 342-43
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XXI
Modern His.
A. D. pAGE
1590 Henry IV. besieges Paris, which is relieved by the duke of Parma
at the head of the Spanish army of the Netherlands, - - 343
1594 Henry IV. is reconciled to the church of Rome, and the catholics
acknowledge his sovereignty, -
1598 Edict of Nantz, by which Henry satisfies the French pro
testants, ......
" Peace of Vervins, between France and Spain,
" Disinterested character and wise policy of Henry's prime minister,
the duke of Sully, .....
1603 Union of the Scottish and English crowns in James I. of England
(VI. of Scotland,) who succeeds Elizabeth,
1605 The Gunpowder Plot. Lord Monteagle. Guy Fawkes,
1606 The independence of Holland established,
1607 Jamestown in Virginia settled by Capt. Smith and others,
1609 Hudson river discovered by Henry Hudson,
343
344
344
344
356
357
337
365
366
1610
1611
1612
1613
1614
1616
s
fcl
1617
Q
1619
o
K
a;
ft.
1620
345
354
353
- 349
393
366
354
358
1621
1625
1627
1628
1629
1631
1632
Henry IV. assassinated by Ravaillac, at the instigation of the
Jesuits, .......
Louis XIII. (son) — his mother, the weak Mary de Medici,
regent, ........
Nearly a million of Moors or Moriscoes expelled from Spain,
The princes of Germany form the Evangelical Union, and
make war upon Matthias, emperor of Germany, which proves
the beginning of the Thirty Years1 War,
Michael Romanoff called to the throne of Russia, is the founder
of a new dynasty, ......
New York settled by the Dutch.— 1615 Albany,
Last meeting of the States General in France, previous to the re-
volution, .......
The parliament of England assume an independent tone,
Concini, marshal d'Ancre, assassinated by consent of Louis XIII. 355
Frederic V., elector palatine, (son-in-law of James I.) vainly at-
tempts to withstand the united power of the house of Austria, 349
The Pilgrims (persecuted English dissenters) settle Plymouth,
in America. They sign the first written constitution of Ame-
rica before leaving their vessel, .... 365
PRAGUE. The elector palatine defeated by the imperialists
under Tilly, ......
France, under the influence of cardinal Richelieu, unites with the
hero of Sweden, Gustavus Adolphus, - - - -
Richelieu, in France, stirs up a war against the Huguenots,
Charles I. succeeds his father, James I.,- ...
Swedes and Finlanders settle Delaware, ....
Salem in Massachusetts settled. — 1630 Boston, -
Assassination of the duke of Buckingham, the unworthy court fa-
vorite, - - - - ..
Charles contends with parliament, being determined to reign ab-
solute, ..---.-.
LE1PS1C. Gustavus Adolphus defeats the imperialists,
LUTZEN, Nov. 6. Gustavus Adolphus defeats the imperialists,
but is slain, - -
Maryland settled by a colony of catholics under lord Baltimore,
- 349
350
355
359
366
365
360
360
350
350
366
XX11
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Modern His. A. D. PAGE
^-^"V"^' 1633 Accession of archbishop Laud, who carries the persecution of the
puritans to a high pitch. (Old popish ceremonies revived.
Clergy required to read in their churches the Book of Sports
or Sunday Pastimes. Great numbers of ministers ejected.
Hooker and others emigrate to America.) - - - 360
1634 NORDLINGEN. The imperialists defeat the confederates under
Horn and Saxe- Weimar, - - - - - 351
1636 Hartford in Connecticut, and Providence in Rhode Island, settled, 365
1636 WITTS TOCK.— 1637 BRISAC—1640 CHEMNITZ.—
BRANDEIZ. The Swedes under Bannier, with their con-
federates, victorious, ------ 351
1638 The Solemn League and Covenant, formed in Scotland,
against the prelatic tyranny of the English church, - - 361
" John Hampden takes a noble stand against the usurpations of the
crown in England, ...... 360
1639 New Haven settled, - - - - - - 365
1640 Nov. 3. The Long Parliament convenes. Pym carries to the
house of lords the impeachment of Thomas Wentworth, earl
of Strafford. Laud is also impeached, - - - 361
" The house of Braganza reign in Portugal, - - - 354
" Montreal founded. The Jesuits go out from it to christianize the
Indians, - - - - - - 378
" WOLFENBUTTEL.— 1645 THABOR. The Swedes, under
Torstenson, victorious, ------
1641 May 12. Strafford beheaded on Tower-hill,
" The Long Parliament subvert the constitution by assuming so-
vereignty, -
1642 The king attempts to take five members, but fails, and civil war
ensues, -/-
" EDGE-HILL. Indecisive. The first battle of the civil war be-
tween the king and people of Great Britain. Several others
indecisive, - ' -
1644 MARSTON-MOOR. The royalists totally defeated by the
parliamentary leaders, Cromwell and Fairfax,
1645 NASEBT. Charles commands in person, and is finally and ut-
terly defeated, - - - - -
" MARIENDAL. The imperialists defeat the French under Tu-
renne, - - - - - -
1646 NORDLINGEN.— 1647 ZUMMERHAUSEN The French
under Turenne defeat the imperialists, ...
1647 Charles a prisoner to Oliver Cromwell, ....
352
362
362
- 362
- 363
363
- 363
352
352
364
1648 Treaty of Westphalia, closes the Thirty Years' War,
1648-53 Wars of the Fronde, in France, -
1649 Cromwell subdues the royalists in Ireland,
1650 May 21. The marquis of Montrose hung by the Scottish cove-
nanters, .......
" July 15. Charles IL lands in Scotland and is proclaimed king, -
" Sept. 3. DUNBAR. Cromwell defeats the Scots,
1651 Sept. 3. WORCESTER. Cromwell again defeats the Scots,
when Charles' affairs becoming desperate, he disguises him-
self and escapes. (Is concealed in an oak, &c.)
353
368
370
370
371
371
371
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XXI 11
Modern His.
A- D- Page
1.653 Cromwell turns out u the Rump Parliament" at the point of the
bayonet, and becomes protector of the commonwealth, • 371
" Naval war between England and Holland. Seven naval actions
in a year. Dutch admirals, Van Tromp and De Ruyter,—
English, Blake and Monk, ' - - . . 371-2
1654 Christiana, daughter of Gustavus Adolphus— resigns the crown of
Sweden to Charles Gustavus, - .... 369
1657 Charles X. (Charles Gustavus,) conquers John Casimir of Poland.
He is restored by the " Peace of Oliya," - - • -369
1658 Dunkirk conquered from the Spaniards by the French, and the Eng-
lish, sent by Cromwell to their aid. It is yielded to the English, 369
1658 Aug, 12. Died Oliver Cromwell, .... 372
1659 Peace of the Pyrenees, between France and Spain, - - 369
16.60 Charles II. being brought back by general Monk, is peaceably
received as king of Great Britain, — hence this period is quoted
in English history as " the Restoration," - - -372
1661 Charles shows the faithlessness of his character in the failure of
his engagements to the Scots in reference to. church matters, - 373
1662 Winthrop of Connecticut, son of the governor of Massachusetts,
pleases Charles II., and obtains a liberal charter for Con-
necticut, - - - ... . . 374
1664 Charles makes war with the Dutch.— New York taken by colonel
Nichols, from the Dutch governor Siuyvesant, - - 374
1665 Terrible plague in London,— nearly 100,000 victims, - - 374
1666 Sept. 2, 3, 4 and 5,-13,000 buildings consumed by fire in London, 374
1667 Peace of Breda, closes the famous naval war between the Eng-
lish and Dutch,
1667 Charles II. gives to Monk, (now the earl of Albemarle,) lord
Shaftesbury, and others, a patent of the southern section of the
American republic, .....
1668 Peace of Aix-la-Chapeile, consented to by Louis XIV., be-
cause the Triple Alliance, by England, Holland and Sweden,
had been made against him. . The peace was soon violated by
• Louis, with whom Charles II. makes a shameful secret league, '375
1672 SOLBAY. French and English against the Dutch under De
Ruyter. A naval action, - - - , - - 376
" The two De Witts murdered by their countrymen, - - 377
1673 Marquette sails down the Wisconsin to the Mississippi, — discovers
the mouths of the Illinois, Missouri,. Ohio, Arkansas, &c, - 378
" CHOCZIM. John Sobieski defeats the Turks, - -392
1674 SENEFFE, in Brabant. Prince of Conde commands against the
prince of Orange. Indecisive — 20,000 killed, - - 377
" Turenne lays waste the Palatinate. (Worms and Spires suffer,) 377
1675-6 Great distress in New England on account of king Philip's war, 381
1676 A rebellion in Virginia, headed by Nathaniel Bacon, -' - 375
1678 Peace of Ximeguen. Holland retains her territories, - 378
1679 Scottish covenanters defeat Graham of Claverhouse at Drumclog", 381
" They are defeated by the duke of Monmouth at Bothwell-bridge, 381
1682 William Penn founds Philadelphia, - ' - - - 382
" Peter the Great becomes czar of Russia, - 393
1683 Lord Russell and Algernon Sidney suffer death for opposing
tyranny, - - - - - - 381-2
- 374
374
XXIV
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Modern
1685
< <
1686
1688
1689
1690
1691
1692
1693
1693
1694
1697
378
382
- 383
379
Page
VIENNA. John Sobieski, (a second Charles Martel,) defeats
the Turks. The Mahometans thus stayed in their progress of
conquest. - - - - -
Charles II. succeeded by James II. - -
James II. sends Sir Edmnud Andros to be governor general in
New England, ------
league of Augsburg. Holland, Spain and England against
France, - - - - ...
The English Revolution, — when the people by rejecting James
II. as their king, and calling in William III., prince of Orange,
virtually changed their constitution, by setting aside the divine
right of kings, and declaring that of an oppressed people to
change their rulers, ------ 383
KILL1ECRANKIE. The Scots, under viscount Dundee, hold
out for James — defeat the forces of William — Dundee slain, - 384
The BOYNE. The Irish, commanded by James in person, de-
feated by the English under William, - - - - 384
Schenectady and other places destroyed by the French and
- 385
French victorious. Also,
380
385
380
- 380
380
1698
1700
1701
Indians,
SAL UCES.—FLE TJR US.
BEACHY-HEAD, -
Anne succeeds William III. -
Off LA HOG UE.—S TEENKIRK. The English victorious
W1DDIN. The French and Turks allied, defeated by the
English, - 380
(Massacre of Glencoe in Scotland. Macdonald and many other
highlanders were butchered in cold blood by the English after
they had surrendered themselves and taken the prescribed oath,)
NEER W1NDEN. King William of England commands against
the French general Luxembourg, — is defeated,
Turks take Belgrade, Upper Hungary, and are again the terror
of Europe, - - - -
Peter of Russia sets out on his travels in the suite of his favorite,
Le Fort. Goes to Holland to learn ship building. William
Penn visits him in London, -----
Peace of Ryswick. Pecuniary embarrassments oblige the
French and English to make peace, and they mutually restore
conquests,
ZENTA. Prince Eugene, at the head of the German forces,
defeats the Turks — their loss 30,000 — they never recover, and
at the -
Peace of Carlowitz, they relinquish some of their conquests,
Treaty of Partition. England, France and Holland against
Spain, --------
Second Treaty of Partition, against Spain, -
Charles II. of Spain leaves his dominions to Philip of Anjou,
grandson to Louis XIV., which gives rise to the wars of the
Spanish succession, ... - -
NARVA. Charles XII. of Sweden defeats the Russians,
The Grand Alliance, by England, Holland, and Germany, to
preserve the balance of power — it being thought it would be
endangered if the Bourbons ruled in both France and Spain, -
395
- 380
380
381
386
386
386
396
387
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XXV
A. D. Page
1702 The Alliance declares war against France, - - -387
' ' Near the D WINA.—GLISSA U.— Charles XII. defeats Augus-
tus king of Poland, ----- -396
" Mobile founded by d'Iberville, .... - 423
1703 HOCHSTADT. French under Villars defeat the allies, - 387
" Peter the Great founds St. Petersburg, - - - - 397
1704 BLENHEIM. The allies, commanded by Marlborough, gain
a great victory over the French, who lose 40,000, - - 388
" Deerfield, in Massachusetts, destroyed, - - - - 391
1706 Peace of Alt Ranstadt, between Charles XII. and Augustus—
in which the latter gives up colonel Patkul, who is executed, 397
1707 ALMANZA. The French and Spanish, commanded by the
duke of Berwick, defeat the allies, ... - 389
1708 OUDENARDE. Marlborough defeats the French under Ven-
dome, - - - - - - - - 389
1709 PULTOWA. Peter the Great defeats Charles XII., who flies
to the Turks, - - - - - - - 398
" MONS. Marlborough and prince Eugene obtain a hard-fought
field from Villars, the French commander, - - - 390
1711 May 21. At the PEUTH. Peter the Great rashly advances
against the Turks, and is saved, with his army, by the czarina
Catharine. Gives up his posts on the sea of Azof, - - 398
" Charles of Austria becomes emperor of Germany, - -390
" In England, queen Anne, no longer attached to the duchess of
Marlborough, falls under the influence of the tories, and inclines
to peace, ....... 391
1713
1714
1715
1718
1719
1720
1721
1733
1735
1740
1741
Peace of Utrecht. Closes the War of the Spanish Succession, 391
Death of queen Anne, and accession of George I. of the house of
Brunswick, ...-..- 409
Peace of Rastadt, between Germany and France, - -391
PEES TON— SHEEIFF-M VIE. The forces of the pretender
(son of James II.,) are defeated, ... -410
Peace of Passarowitz. The Turks cede to Austria Belgrade,
part of Servia and Wallachia. They receive from Venice the
Morea, 404
Death of Charles XII., and elevation of his sister Ulrica Eleonora
to the throne of Sweden, ..... 399
Quadruple Alliance. England, France, Austria and Holland
against Spain, ------- 404
Peter the Great sends an embassy to China, - - - 400
South Sea Scheme — a great speculating hoax, which is the means
of much pecuniary distress, .... - 410
Peter takes the title of " Emperor of all the Russias," - - 400
War of the Polish succession in favor of Stanislaus Leczinski —
who finally -relinquishes the crown to Augustus II., - - 404
The Pragmatic Sanction, to secure the Austrian succession to
Maria Theresa, - - - - - 404
War of the Austrian Succession — Frederic II. of Prussia invades
Silesia, - - . - - - - ' - 405
MOLL WITZ. Frederic victorious, obtains possession of Silesia, 406
League of Prussia, France, and Bavaria, against Maria Theresa, 406
XXVI
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Modern His.
A. D. Page
1742 Peace of Breslau. Frederic II. violates the alliance, and
makes peace with Maria Theresa, who cedes to Mm Silesia, 406
1743 DETTINGEN. English in alliance with the Austrians defeat
the French. George II. commands in person, - - 406
1745 PRESTON-PANS.— FALKIRK.— The forces of the young
pretender defeat the Royalists, - - . - ■ - 411
" Frederic II. again joins the enemies of Maria Theresa, and wins
the battles of FRIEDBERG and SORR, - - -407
" In America the colonists take for England Louisburg, from the
French, . - - - - - - 407
1746 CULL 0 DEN. The friends of the young pretender totally de-
feated by the duke of Cumberland, - .... -411
1748 Peace of Aix-la-Chapelle closes the war of the Austrian suc-
cession, or " Eight years' War," - - - -408
1750 Ohio Company chartered, ..... 423
1753 Major George Washington crosses the wilderness to bear a letter
to the French commandant, ------ 423
1754 Congress meet at Albany — Franklin's plan of union rejected
both in England and America, .... 423
1755 Earthquake at Lisbon, ------ 413
" BRADDOCKS-FIELD. Braddock's defeat and Washington's
preservation, .--.... 425
" FORT EDWARD. Johnson and Lyman defeat the French
under baron Dieskau, ------ 425
1756 The Black Hole of Calcutta, where Surajah shuts up his English
prisoners to die for want of air, .... 421
'* "The Seven Years' IFar" begins, known in America as the
French war, . - - - ... . 413
1757 Massacre of Fort William Henry, - - - - 425
" PLASSY. Clive defeats Surajah Dowlah, and the British em-
pire of India is founded, - - - . - 421
" The French conquer Hanover, - - - - -414
" PRAGUE. Frederic victorious over the Austrians. — KOLIN. .
He is defeated by them, - 414
1758 ZORNDORF. Frederic defeats the Russians.— HO CH-
KIRCHEN He is defeated by the Austrians, - - 415
1759 CUNNERSDORF. Frederic defeated by the Russians and
Austrians, - - - * V " * ^5
" LIGNITZ.—TORQUA. He defeats the Austrians, - -415
" HEIGHTS OF ABRAHAM. Wolfe defeats Montcalm. The
conquest of all Canada, by the English, follows, - - 415
1760 Family Compact between the Bourbons of France and Spain, - 416
1762 Peter III. emperor of Russia. His wife Catharine, supposed to
be concerned in his death, succeeds, - - - - 416
1763 Peace of Paris, between England, France and Spain. Canada
given up by the French. Floridaby the Spanish to the English, 416-17
1765 The Stamp Act, - - 426
1771 First Partition of Poland, by Russia, Prussia, and Austria, - 418
1773 Tea thrown overboard at Boston, - - - - 427
1774 Louis XVI. becomes king of France. The kingdom overwhelmed
with debt, - - - - - - - 436
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XXV11
His.
A. D. Page
1775 LEXINGTON. First blood shed of the war of the American
revolution, ....... 427
'■ June 15, Washington made commander-in-chief, - r 427
" June 17, BUNKER'S HILL, - - - - -427
" Montgomery and Arnold command an expedition against Canada.
Montgomery killed, ...... 428
July 4, American Independence declared, - - - 431
August 27, BROOKLYN. Americans defeated, - -431
December 26-27, TRENTON. Washington victorious, - 432
January 3, PRINCETON. Washington successful, - - 432
BRAND YWINE.—GERMANTOWN. British victorious, - 432
BENNINGTON— STILL- WATER.— SARATOGA. Ame-
ricans victorious, — Burgoyne surrenders his army, - 432-3
- 433
1776
1777
1778
1780
<(
1781
1783
1787
1788
1789
1790
1791
1792
1793
Treaty with France, -
MONMOUTH. Americans victorious.— SA VANNAH. They
are defeated, ------- 433
CAMDEN. Cornwallis defeats Gates, - - - -433
GUILFORD C. H. Greene and Cornwallis, - - - 433
Sir Eyre Coote conquers Hyder Ali, and takes Seringapatam, - 422
YORKTOWN. Washington invests Cornwallis and captures
his whole army, ...... 434
Peace of Paris, - - - - - - -434
Convention at Philadelphia frame the American Constitution, - 435
Terrible storm in France — causes famine and hastens the revolu-
tion, - - - - - - - - 437
March 4, Washington and John Adams first president and vice-
president, ....... 435
May 5, The states general convene at Versailles. The French Re-
volution begins, - - - - - - 437
Oct. 5, The mob at Versailles — women crying, "bread ! bread !" 438
The " National Constituent Assembly" form a constitution, - 438
Escape of the royal family. Seized at Varennes and brought back
to Paris, .... - - 439
The National Constituent Assembly dissolved, - - -439
Oct. 14, The Legislative Assembly convene in Paris. — Roland. — '•
The Jacobins, - - - - - 440
March 20, The French declare war against the Austrians. La-
fayette vainly seeks to save the king and constitution, - 440
Aug. 10, The Tuilleries attacked. The royal family take refuge
in the Assembly, - - - - - - 440
Sept. 2, Having been threatened with desti-uction by the duke of
Brunswick, the Parisians massacre the royalists, - - 441
Sept. 20, The French Republic begins, monarchy being abolished
by the National Convention, ..... 441
Jan. 21, Louis XVI. beheaded. The "Infernal Triumvirate,"
"The reign of Terror," .... 441-2
The First Coalition against France. All the European powers
except Sweden, Denmark and Turkey, - - - 441
VALMY. Dumourier defeats the allies. (Louis Philip dis-
tinguishes himself.) - - - - - 441
Washington and John Adams re-elected president and vice-pre-
sident, .--...-- 435
xxvm
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
Modern His.
A. D. Page
1794 The National Convention abolish the Sabbath, and attempt to over-
turn Christianity, ...... 442
" Charlotte Corday kills Marat. Robespierre destroys Danton.
The Convention guillotine Robespierre, - -'-" - 442
" In America — British retain forts. — Wayne's War, - - 435
" Jay's Treaty, - - - - - - - 435
1795 Nov. 1, The Directory formed.— Napoleon Bonaparte, 442-3
1796 Bonaparte's first brilliant campaign.— MONTE NOTTE—
MILLES1MO—MONDOVI-LODI—LONA TO-CAS-
TIGLIONE—MED OLA—R 0 VERED 0—BASSANO—
Caldiero*—ARCOLA, • - - - 443-4
1797 MONTE BALD O—RIVOLI, • - - -' -445
" Oct. 17, Peace of Campo Formio, - - - -445
1798 Italy, Switzerland and Holland, conquered countries, cut up into
governments which the French called republics, - - 445
" THE PYRAMIDS. Bonaparte conquers the Mamelukes, -446
" ON THE NILE. Nelson with a British fleet totally defeats
the French, - - - - - - - 446
" Second Coalition. England, Russia, Austria, &c, against
France, ....... 446
1799 Bonaparte repulsed by Sir Sydney Smith at Acre, - - 446
" Nov. 11, Directory abolished. — The Consulate — Bonaparte first
consul, -..----- 447
" Dec. 14, Death of Washington, - - - - 446
1800 June 14, MARENGO. Bonaparte defeats the Austrians under
Melas, - - • - - - - - 447
" Nov. 3, HOHENLINDEN. Moreau defeats the Austrians, - 447
1801 Jan. 1, Peace of Imneville, between France and Austria, - 447
" Alexander succeeds Paul as emperor of Russia, - 448
1802 Peace of Amiens. (England agrees to restore Malta to France,) 448
" England refuses to restore Malta. French seize Hanover. Bri-
tish blockade the mouths of the Elbe and Weser, - - 448
1803 Bonaparte appointed first consul for life, .... 448
1804 Napoleon's coronation, ..... 451
'* Third Coalition. England subsidizes Austria and Russia
against France, - - - - - - 451
1805 Oct. 18, TJLM.— Dec. 2, AUSTERLITZ. N. defeats the Aus. 452
" TRAFALGAR. English defeat the French— Nelson killed, - 465
" Dec. 27, Peace of Presburg, between Austria and France, - 452
1806 Confederation of the Rhine, - - - - -452
" German Empire ceases to exist. The emperor Francis II. takes
the title of emperor of Austria, .... 452
" Fourth Coalition. England and Prussia against France, - 524
" Oct. 14, JENA. Napoleon totally defeats the Prussians, - 452
" Dec. 26, Napoleon's Berlin Decree against neutral commerce, - 452
1807 The British Orders in Council, - - - - - 452
" Feb. 8, EYLAU.— June, FRIEDLAND. Napoleon defeats
the Russians, ..----- 453
" Peace of Tilsit. (Napoleon strips Prussia of the kingdom of
Westphalia for his brother Jerome.) ... - 453
* Those in capitals, Bonaparte's victories ; those in italics, his defeats.
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XXIX
Modern His.
A.D. Page
1807-8 The English take possession of the Danish fleet, - - 453
" Napoleon sends an army to Portugal. The royal family emigrate
to Brazil, - - - - - - - 453
1808 Napoleon meets Ferdinand, king of Spain, at Bayonne, and com-
pels him to abdicate, ------ 454
11 The Spanish patriots defeat the French, - - - 455
11 VIMEIRA. English under Wellesley defeat the French, - 455
1809 C OR UNNA. English defeated. Sir John Moore's death, -455
" Fifth Coalition against France. England, Austria, &c, - 456
" ABENSBERG, LAND SHUT, ECKMUHL, Aspem, Es-
sling, WAGRAM. Battles between the French, under Na-
poleon, and the Austrians, - - . - - - 456
'* Peace of Vienna, — followed by the divorce of Josephine, and
Napoleon's marriage to Maria Louisa, - - - 456
" TALAVERA. Wellesley defeats the French, - - -457
1812 America declares war against England, on account of spoliations
of commerce, and impressment of seamen, - - -465
" Napoleon invades Russia with half a million of men, - -458
" Aug. 17, SMOLENSKO.— Sept. 7, BORODINO. The
French defeat the Russians, ----- 459
" Sept. 14, The burning of Moscow, - - - -459
" Oct. 19, Napoleon begins his disastrous retreat from Russia, -459
" Nov. 28, Passage of the Berezina, - - - -459
" DETR OIT.— QUEENSTO WN. The Americans unsuccessful, 466
" At sea they take the Guerriere and Macedonian frigates, • 466
" Earthquake at Caraccas impedes the revolution, - - - 471
1813 The Massacre of FRENCHTOWN, - - - -466
" YORK.— LAKE ERIE.— Near the THAMES. Americans
victorious, ------- 466
" The Sixth and Grand Coalition against France, - -460
" May 2, LUTZEN— May 19, BAUTZEN.— Oct. 15, Leipsic.
Battles between the French under Napoleon, and the allied
armies, .-....- 460
1814 March 31. The allies enter Paris, - - - - 461
" April 11. Napoleon abdicates. He goes to Elba. Louis XVIII.
king of France, ...... 462
« « CHIP RE WA .—BR ID GE WA TE E.—PLA TTSB UR G
BA Y. Americans victorious, .... 466
" British take Washington and burn the public buildings, - - 467
1815 Jan. 8, NEW ORLEANS. Americans, under Jackson, vic-
torious, -------- 467
" Peace of Ghent, between England and America, - - 468
" March 1, Napoleon lands in France. His reign of a hundred
days. -------- 462
" June 18, WATERLOO. Napoleon defeated by the allies under
Wellington, J- - - - - - - 463
" July 15, Napoleon delivers himself to the English and is sent to
St. Helena, - - - - - - - 464
" Brazil independent of Portugal. Pedro I. is king, - -469
" Americans chastise the Algerines, - 488
1818 Congress of Sovereigns ("Holy Alliance,") at Aix-la-Chapelle, - 484
XXX
Modern His.
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
A. D.
1819 '
Manchester riots.
Page
of 400
Military execution or massacre
persons, -
1819-20 American republic obtains Florida of Spain,
1820 George IV. succeeds his father, - -
1820-1 Struggles of the people in various parts of Europe for constitu-
tional liberty, ..----•-
1821 May 5, Death of Napoleon at St. Helena,
1822 Congress at Verona. England takes a stand against the aggres-
sions of the Holy Alliance, -
" The Greeks having rebelled against the Turks, form a govern-
ment, --.-----
" Massacre of Scio. 70,000 killed and made prisoners,
1823 Iturbide having been made emperor of Mexico, is compelled to
abdicate, .......
1824 Lord Byron dies at Missolonghi, - - - - -
1825 Peace of Yandabu, by which England gains a portion of the
Birman empire, ......
1824-5 Lafayette in America. " The Nation's Guest,"
1826 July 4, Death of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, -
1827 The Treaty of London. By which England, France, and
Russia regulate the affairs of Greece, -
" NA VARINO. These powers defeat the Turks and compel the
sultan to liberate the Greeks, -
1829 Catholic Relief Bill passes the British parliament,
1830. William IV. succeeds George IV. in England, -
" July 26-7-8, Three Days Revolution in Paris. Louis Philip made
king, - - . -
1831 Pedro I. of Brazil, abdicates in favor of his son Pedro II., and
goes to Portugal to establish his daughter Maria in that
kingdom, .......
1830-1 Attempted revolution in Poland,
1832 Reform Bill passes the British parliament, by which the "rotten
boroughs" are disfranchised, and Manchester and other cities
represented, - - - - - - - 480
" General Jackson vetoes the National Bank, - - -4911
" Belgium independent. Leopold made king, - - - 487/
" Peace of Adrianople, between the Turks and Russians. Ad-
vantageous to Russia, ------ 485
" KONIEH. Ibrahim of Egypt defeats.the Turks. England and
other powers prevent Egypt from becoming independent, - 4855
1833 Slavery abolished in the British colonies, - 4803
" In Spain, Ferdinand VII. succeeded by Isabella II. - - 4865
" Santa Ana at the head of affairs in Mexico, - - - 4722
" British interfere to protect their merchants in an unrighteous traffic
in opium, and compel the Chinese government to pay a large
indemnity, give up the island of Hong-Kong, &c
1834 Quadruple Alliance. England and France unite with Portu-
gal and Spain to uphold constitutional government under the
young queens Maria and Isabella II. - - - - 470
" A decree made in Greece to encourage female education, - 477/
1835 The Florida War, - - 492
1836 March 2, Texas declares independence, -
478
489'
478 i
474
464
479
475.
475.
472
476:
481
489 i;
490)
- 476 i
476
479)
480)
486'.
470
487;
- 482.
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.
XXXI
Modern
April 21, SAN JACINTO. The Texians defeat the Mexicans
, and gain their independence, .... - 474
"Victoria succeeds William IV. in England, - - - 481
"The Revulsion." Great pecuniary distress in the American
States, - - - - - - - 491
Napoleon reinterred in Paris, - - - - 488
Contest in' Rhode Island. " The People's Constitution," - 494
Death of president Harrison, .... -493
Thomas W. Dorr illegally elected governor, attempts to make
war on the constituted authorities of Rhode Island, - - 494
The Ashbur&m Treaty, between England and America, - 493
The Greeks, by a bloodless revolution, obtain a constitution
which limits the power of the king, - - - . 477
The "Free Church of Scotland," - - - -482
Study of the Chronological Illustrations.
The Temple of Time (see Frontispiece) is the perspective delineation of a
grand imaginary edifice, which represents the whole of Time from the creation
of the world to the present day.
Each pillar or column represents a century. The Christian era (or the
birth of Christ) is here represented by a star #. Beginning at the distance of
this star, from the foreground, the columns representing centuries are num-
bered 1st, 2d, 3d, to 19th, which is the number of the present century. That
is left not quite half finished, as now fl 844,) there remains TY<y of the century
to be accomplished. Beyond the time of Christ the pillars should be num-
bered 1, 2, 3, 4, &c. to 40 — there being forty centuries before Christ. The
dividing of the pillars into groups of ten each, a group indicating 1000 years,
helps the memory. The increased space between the pillars, filled at the
lower part by a statue, marks these divisions. The same division is made
sensible on the roof and floor by lines. There are four of these groups before
the Christian era, after it one entire group, and almost another. The part of
the roof and floor- work, between the two unfinished pillars of the 19th century,
represents time which belongs to the 19th century, and so with respect to the
18th, 17th, &c.
On the right hand side of the Temple, the unfinished pillar of the 19th
century is inscribed with the name of Napoleon — the man who possessed
the most political power, and who has been the most distinguished sovereign
of this age on the Eastern continent. On the corresponding unfinished column
at the left hand we have placed the name of Bolivar, as being the most dis-
tinguished person, and possessing the most political power of any individual
on the Western continent, of the 19th century ; especially of those not now
living. On the pillar of the 18th century, on the side which we have taken
for the American, is inscribed the name of Washington; and on that taken
for the chronology of the Eastern continent, the names of Peter the Great
and Frederic the Great. On the roof are names of the most distinguished
persons of the world set down in five different classes. In the class nearest
the right hand columns are the most distinguished military commanders of
their age ; the next embraces the greatest poets and painters ; the next or
* The bow is placed in the Temple to mark the time of the deluge.
XXX11 STUDY OF THE CHRONOLOGICAL ILLUSTRATIONS.
central division, the most eminent religious characters, the next the philoso-
phers and discoverers; and in the class nearest the left hand side are the
most celebrated statesmen.
The pupil will now be able to answer the following questions on the
Temple.
Who is the most distinguished sovereign of the 19th century on the Eastern conti-
nent? Who is the most distinguished commander on the American continent in the 19th
century? Who is the most distinguished personage of the American continent of the
18th century? Who are the most distinguished sovereigns of the Eastern continent in
the 18th century ? Who in the 17th ? Who 16th ? and so on till the time of Christ.
In order that the pupil should connect the dates of events with this visible
delineation of time, the teacher will do well to accustom him in the study of
Middle and Modern History,* to point on the Temple to the proper places of
given dates. Take, for example, the date 1492, of the discovery of America.
The student will consider that fourteen centuries had been completed and
nearly another, so that the event will be in the latter part of the 15th century,
and as we imagine the pillars to be begun at the bottom and built upward,f
the place of the date will be within yf^ (less than y^) of the length of the
pillar from the top. If in this way the pupils were accustomed to locate on
the Temple the dates of their daily lessons, instead of committing them to
memory, it would not only be a pleasant recreation in the room of a painful
task, but it would in the end be far more useful.
Next let the pupil turn to the Chronological Chart, which we have called
" A Perspective Sketch of the Course of Empire ," and let him conceive of this
as the floorwork of a larger Temple of Time, where the observer stands
opposite the centre, not on one side. Let him then answer the following
questions.
Under what three grand divisions is the subject of Universal History here treated ?
Into how many Periods is the Ancient History divided ? Into how many the Middle ?
Into how many the Modern? What Epocha divides the Ancient from the Middle His-
tory ? What the Middle from the Modern? What are the Epochas, with their dates,
which divide the Ancient History into Periods? What the Epochas that divide the
Middle ? What those that divide the Modern?
What nations are known to have existed in the first period of Ancient History ? What
in the second? What in the third? In the fourth ? &c. What were the principal states
of Greece? During what period did each become known? When was the empire of
Cyrus formed, and of what nations ? When that of Alexander, and of what nations ?
What nations were included in the Roman empire at the time of Christ, and at about
what time were they united to it ?
What are the principal barbarous nations which issued from the Northern Hive, and
overran the Roman empire ? During what periods were their irruptions ? What are the
modern European nations which arose from the ruins of the Roman empire ? During
what periods were they divided from it? What modern nations, which did not belong to
the Roman empire, were formed from the Northern Hive? When was the empire of
Charlemagne, and of what nations was it composed ? When was that of Jenghis Khan,
and of what nations composed ? Of Tamerlane — of Margaret of Waldemar ? With whom
did the Caliphate begin ? How long did it continue ? At about what time did the Turks
bring the eastern division of the Roman empire to a close ? When was the empire of
Charles V. formed, and of what nations did it consist? When was that of Napoleon
formed, and of what nations did it consist ?
* The frontispiece, although as large as the size of the book will admit, is somewhat
confused towards the farther end of the Temple ; hence we have not spoken here of the
events of ancient history with those of middle and modern, but the student can easily
draw for himself a temple on a scale sufficiently large for the distinct representation of
the four times ten pillars, which stand for the forty centuries before Christ.
t The names of sovereigns on the pillars, when there are more than one, do not stand
in the correct order of time according to our design ; which imagines the time of the
century to begin at the bottom of the pillar and increase upwards. These names have-
been thus placed on account of the smallness of the representation, which obliged the
engraver to place them lengthwise on the pillar.
Hr
*<B
IV-
i-W
ANCIENT HISTORY.
FROM THE CREATION TO THE BIRTH OF CHRIST.
PEKIOD I.
FROM
^B. C. c
THE CREATION £ 4004:. < OF THE WORLD,
TO
THE CALLING > 1921. < OF ABRAHAM.
CHAPTER I.
The earliest History of Man.
1. The face of the whole earth,with a few exceptions, is now Ancient His
known. The family of man is divided by natural distinctions, PERI0D L
into different races ; and by the boundary lines of the countries chap. i.
which they inhabit, into different nations, each governed by its n^-v~^>
own peculiar laws.
2. If we take a map representing the entire world, and inquire
concerning the length of time, which the nations it now presents
have been known, we shall find in looking back to different The human
periods, that by degrees, their names and places disappear. In race.
A. D. 1491, the whole continent of America was, as to those backng
from whom we derive the knowledge of history, as though it through the
were not. A little before the birth of our Savior, Great Britain, time, na-
the land of our ancestors, was unknown, as was the whole of tl0{l1]1s e^gd_u"
the northern part of Europe, the southern part of Africa, and appear,
the eastern part of Asia. If we go back 2000 years from the
Christian era, no traces of inhabitants are to be found on the
face of the earth, except a few comparatively small nations,
near the eastern extremity of the Mediterranean sea.
3. Hence, even without referring to the sacred writings, we Probable
j should conclude, that the human race probably had their origin a~Je™w?th
i in that region ; and calculating their progress from what is scripture
) known of later times, we should also conclude that they might
Period I. Chap. I. — 1. What part of the face of the earth is now
known? How is the human family divided by nature ? How by the bound-
ary lines of countries? — 2. When was the whole continent of America un-
known ? What countries were unknown at the birth of our Savior ? If we
go back 2000 years from the Christian era, what inhabitants shall we find on
the earth ? — 3. What inferences in regard to the origin and progress of man-
kind should we derive from these facts ?
5 33
34 GOD CREATES.
Ancient His. have been, supposing they commenced with a single family,
about two thousand years from the period last mentioned, in
coming to the state in which we then find them. But it is
upon the sacred writings alone, that we depend for historical
information concerning the creation, and first abode of the human
4004. race. These, the calculations of Scripture dates most approved
by the learned, fix at 4004 years before the Christian era,* and
^of man.0" m tne region east of the Mediterranean sea. Thus we find our
confidence in the truth of the Sacred Scriptures, greatly strength-
ened by a comprehensive view of universal history.
4. Those nations which have not possessed the Scriptures,
have held traditions concerning gods and goddesses, and the
origin of men and things, full of monstrous absurdities. Some
Ridiculous men, calling themselves philosophers, have, in the pride of their
uSsewho own fancied wisdom, rejected the Scriptures, and have under -
rejee.tthe taken to make out systems of the world from conjecture; and,
scriptures. ^ their ridiculous theories, they have made themselves the jest
of succeeding ages. Supposing changes more miraculous than
any related in Scripture-, they have not assigned any power,
adequate to their production.
.■ 5. Jn the infancy of the human species, God appears to have
dealt with man, in a manner, different from the ordinary course
g j of his providence, at the present day. An earthly parent is more
ings with with his helpless and ignorant children, than with those who have
Tnfancyof exPei*ience. The first duty which he teaches them, is implicit
the race, obedience to his will ; and when he finds them wayward and
disobedient, he chastises them, and sometimes, with severity.
Thus, as the Scriptures inform us, did the Almighty Parent deal
with man, in the infant state of his being.
6. Adam and Eve, whom God had created in his own image,
pure and holy, disobeyed his command, and were driven from
jhe trans- their first abode, the beautiful garden of Eden.f On the day of .
punishment, their disobedience, the sentence of death was passed upon them.
The man was condemned to earn his bread by the sweat of his
brow; and the woman, who had been seduced by flattery and
undue curiosity, to be the first transgressor, was punished with
a double curse. Yet did God, in his mercy, then promise, that
promise, of her seed should One arise, to bruise the head of the de-
ceiver. Thus, according to Moses, the promise of a Savior
* We follow the chronology of Archbishop Usher.
t Some suppose Paradise to have been located in the lovely vale of
Cashmire. The . Himmalah mountains, the highest in the world, tower
above it. The four rivers mentioned in Scripture are supposed to be the
Indus, the Ganges, Burrampooter, and Jihon.
3. On what must we depend for our knowledge of the creation and first
abode of the human race ? How long is it since the Creation ? Where was
the first abode: of man ? How is our confidence in the Scriptures affected
by a comprehensive view.of history ? — 4r. What kind of traditions and theo-
ries have been made by those who have not the Scriptures, or reject them ?
— 5. How did God deal with the human race in their infancy ? — 6. Where
is the garden of Eden supposed to have been ? (See note.) What sentence
was pronounced on Adam and Eve for their transgression ? What promise
of mercy was at the same time made to them ?
GOD DESTROYS. 35
was coeval with the fall of man, and his need of a Re- Ancient His-
deemer. period i.
7. We are informed that the life of man, before the deluge, CHAP« *•
extended to ten times its present period. Most of the know- ^-^vx-/
ledge, now possessed by the human race, is derived from the
experience and observation of the men who have lived before
them ; but in those days there were no such stores of knowledge
laid up. A life of several hundred years would give each man Longevityof
time to learn much from his own experience, and thus facilitate ^S^ans!1"
the general improvement of the race. Hence it seems very na-
tural to suppose, that God should have allotted to men a longer
period of existence at the first. As there are no authorities to
consult on this part of history, except the sacred volume, which
is, or should be in the hands of every one, we shall refer the
student to that for particular facts ; mentioning only those which
are more immediately connected with the course of events, as
detailed by those historians, who, in distinction from the sacred,
are termed profane writers.
8. The most remarkable of these events is the universal
deluge ; when God, again, for the sins of mankind, smote the
earth with a curse ; and swept away, at once, the whole of a B c
wicked generation, who had filled the earth with violence. Yet 2348.
when the fountains of the deep were broken up, and when those The Deluse-
who had climbed to the tops of the mountains were buried in
the waste of waters, Noah, a righteous man, who had, in obe-
dience to the command of God, prepared an ark for himself and
family, rode safely over the mighty ruin.
9. The Scripture account of this awful event, is confirmed
by the researches and discoveries of those, who have examined
the structure of the earth. In thus pursuing the modern science
of geology, they find evidences of former changes and convul-
sions, not to be ascribed to any causes now known to be in
operation. And, independently of any other testimony, they
conclude that many centuries after the world was originally Confirmsgthe
peopled, animals and vegetables were destroyed by an over- BCJJJJJJl
whelming deluge. The great geologist, Cuvier, gives it as his
opinion, that " the event cannot be dated much farther back than
five or six thousand years." This coincides with the date of
the deluge, as drawn from the Mosaic records. A farther source
of evidence, is found in the traditionary accounts of nations
holding no intercourse with each other. The Chinese, Greeks, Tradition
Hindoos, and the American Indians, all agree in the general al80'
fact, that in remote antiquity, there was an inundation, which
overwhelmed the earth.
10. The ark of Noah rested on Mount Ararat, in Armenia.
7. Whence is most of the knowledge now possessed by the human race,
derived ? What makes it natural to suppose that God allotted a longer dura-
tion to human life at first ? — &. What was the occasion of the universal de-
luge ? Who survived it ? — 9. What have we to confirm the Scripture ac-
count ? Where does Cuvier, reckoning from geological appearances, fix
the date ? What nations have traditions of a universal deluge?
36
THE SECOND FATHER OF MANKIND.
Ancient His.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. II.
2300.
Division of
countries
among the
sons of
Noah.
Coincidence
between
prophecy
and known
facts.
See Gen. ix.
25, 26, 27.
Indefinite-
ness of our
knowledge
of remote
antiquity.
2300
Tower of
Babel.
The four
earliest
nations.
When the dove had returned with the olive branch, to show
that the waves of God's wrath were assuaged, the sole patri-
arch of the human race went forth with his three sons, Shem,
Ham, and Japheth, to take possession of his wide and solitary
domain.
11. The Mosaic history informs us, that Shem and his de-
scendants dwelt in Eastern and Southern Asia ; Ham and his
posterity, Canaan and others, in Western Asia and Africa;
and that the " Isle« of the Gentiles," meaning probably the Me-
diterranean, European and Caucasian regions, were divided
among the children of Japheth. Modern physiologists have
classed the human species under three corresponding races,
namely, the Mongol, the Negro, and the Caucasian. The Cau-
casian race, in their progress, have conquered great portions of
the territories, inhabited by the Mongols in Asia and America,
while the Negro race are held in servitude by their brethren.
12. We cannot indeed tell exactly, what places on the
earth's surface were designated by the names of the countries
mentioned at very remote periods ; for it was not until ages after,
that geography was cultivated as a science, or that accurate
maps existed. The sacred historian, after speaking of the loca-
tion of the descendants of Noah, informs us, that they all col-
lected on the plain of Shinar with the impious design to build
a tower whose top should reach to heaven. God confounded
their language, and they then separated; wandering to distant
countries.
13. We soon begin to find traces of such connections among
particular families or tribes, as gave them the name of nations.
The earliest mentioned are the Assyrians, the Babylonians or
Chaldeans, the Egyptians, and the Jews. Some obscure ac-
counts of Phoenicia also extend back to this period, and in
Greece, Sieyon is supposed by some to have been founded.
CHAPTER II.
Assyria. — Egypt.
Babylon 1- The name of Assyria was derived from Ashur, the son of
founded by Shem, who was supposed to have been driven out of his pro-
Nimrod. vinces by Nimrod, the grandson of Ham. Nimrod, is said to
lO. Where did Noah's ark rest?— 11. What, according to the best cal-
culations, were the respective locations of Noah's descendants ? How do mo-
dern physiologists class the human species ? — 12. Can we tell exactly what
places were designated by the names of the countries mentioned at this pe-
riod? Why can we not?' What occasioned the dispersion of mankind after
the deluge ?— 13. Which were the four earliest nations mentioned in history ?
—13. Which were the next two ? What was the first city of Greece ?
Chap. II.— 1. Whence is the name of Assyria derived ?
GREAT STRUCTURES BUILT BY ENSLAVED MASSES.
37
have founded Babylon, about one hundred and fifty years after
the deluge, and is believed to be the same with Belus or Baal, who
was afterwards worshipped as a god. The kingdoms of Assyria
and Babylonia, were at first distinct; but when Ninus, the son
of Ashur, ascended the Assyrian throne, he conquered the adja-
cent provinces, and rendered Babylonia tributary. Ninus com-
pleted the magnificent city of Nineveh, which his father had
begun. This accomplished prince, and his beautiful and highly
gifted queen Semiramis, are treated in the marvellous records
of historians, as the hero and heroine of the age in which they
lived.
2. Ninyas, their son, being an infant, at the time of his fa-
ther's death, Semiramis governed the kingdom. She extended
her dominions by the conquest of Ethiopia, and carried the ter-
ror of her arms beyond the Indus ; but her Indian expedition
proving unsuccessful, she returned, with the loss of two-thirds
of her army. She is said to have commenced many of those
noble structures, that adorned and rendered famous the city of
Babylon, which she made the capital of her kingdom ; and to
have employed in the execution of her plans, the labours of
two millions of men.
3. Ninyas, who succeeded Semiramis, was an indolent and ef-
feminate prince; and is charged with the crime of being acces-
sory to his mother's death. The Scriptures mention Am-
raphel, king of Shinar, which was in the land of Chaldea, and
Pul, who is supposed to be the father of Sardanapalus, and in
whose reign the Ninevites repented at the preaching of Jonah.
4. EGYPT. — Menes or Misraim, the son of Ham, is supposed
to have been the founder of the first Egyptian monarchy ; but
of his immediate successors, nothing is known. Some ages
had elapsed when Busiris, it is said, built Thebes, and made it
the seat of his empire. That a most wonderful city, called by
this name, was built, we know, for remains of it exist to this
day ; but there are only traditionary accounts of its founder.
We are told that Osymandias, another Egyptian king, erected
magnificent edifices, adorned them with sculpture and painting,
and founded the first library mentioned in history. Its title or
inscription was, " The office or treasury for the diseases of the
soul." At this period the Egyptians had already divided the
year into twelve months, each consisting of thirty days and six
hours.
5. Though little is known of the early history and internal
revolutions of the kingdom of Egypt, yet it is considered as the
Ancient His.
2159.
Nineveh
built by
Ninus.
Semiramis
conquers
Ethiopia.
(It extended
east of the
Red sea.)
2065.
Ninyas.
2188.
Menes
founds the
first Egyp-
tian mon-
archy.
Library of
rolled MSS.
in hierogly-
phics.
1. Who is supposed to have been the founder of Babylon ? When was it
founded ? By whom were Assyria and Babylonia united ? Who completed
Nineveh? Who was the queen of Ninus ? What were the characters
of Ninus and of Semiramis ? — %. Who were Amraphel and Pul ? — 3. W hat is
said of Ninyas? — *. Who founded the Egyptian monarchy? When?
Who is said to have found Thebes ? How do we know that such a
city as Thebes really existed ? What is said of the first library mentioned
in history ? How had the Egyptians divided the year ?
38 EGYPT GIVES SCIENCE TO GREECE.
Ancient His, point where civilization began, and from whence the rays of
period I. knowledge emanated to other portions of the earth ; particularly
chap. ii. to Greece, through which channel, discoveries made by the
^~vv^ Egyptians have come to us. About 2085 B. C. Egypt is said
to have been invaded by the Shepherd-kings from Arabia or
^w»?». Phoenicia, who conquered Lower Egypt, and Memphis, and
vadedPbySie reigned over them two hundred and sixty years. From the ex-
Shepherd pulsion of the Shepherd-kings until the arrival of Joseph, the
Ings* son of Jacob, there is a chasm in Egyptian history.
Note. — While it is held by historians of Christian countries, that Shemis
the father of the Mongols, (i. e. the Asiatics and aboriginal Americans ;)
Ham of the Negro race, and Japheth the Caucasian, (i. e. Europeans, and
their descendants in America); it is maintained by Mahometan writers, that
Shem is the progenitor of the Eastern nations — Hebrews, Persians, Ara-
bians, and also of the Greeks and Romans, (to whom is assigned the do-
minion of the world, and from whom all good is to proceed,) — that Ham is
the father of the southern nations — Moors, Africans, and Indians, (to whom
is assigned the lot of slavery, but they are to be beloved and cared for by
the other races,) and that Japheth is the ancestor of the northern nations,
Turks, Tartars, Germans, Chinese, Slavi,and native Americans. Though
both accounts are in degree supposititious, yet, that of the Christian writers
is the more probable, as better corresponding with natural divisions. A
great question arises, how the differences, which are now found in the physi-
cal and mental structures of the different races, have occurred, they having
a common parentage. We believe, that God to suit his own wise purposes,
miraculously changed the colour and structure of some of the first descend-
ants of Noah. This supposes an omission of an important fact in the Scrip-
ture history; but it leaves, in unquestioned veracity, the revelation we
5. Why is Egypt important in history ? Through what channel have
the discoveries of the Egyptians come down to us ? By whom was Egypt
invaded ? What part of Egypt did they conquer, and how long did they
reign ?
Abraham, about to sacrifice his son, takeB the lad from his unsuspecting mother.
PERIOD II.
THE CALLING
FROM
} B. C. c
THE INSTITUTION
OF THE PASSOVER
TO
1491.
OF ABRAHAM.
AND THE EXODUS OF
THE ISRAELITES.
CHAPTER I.
The Israelites or Jews.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
1921.
The man of
faith re-
1. Descended from the stock of Shem, whom the prophetic -Ancient His
benediction of Noah had set forth as more blessed than his
brethren, Abraham, the progenitor of the Messiah, the father
of the faithful, and the founder of the Jewish nation, dwelt in
the country of the Chaldees; and retained, in the midst of an
idolatrous and corrupt people, the knowledge of the true God.
Journeying from thence with his family, his retinue, and his
flocks, he rested for a time in Haran, where Terah, his father, ceives acaii
died. Here, God called him, and bade him depart from his promise,
kindred, and go into the land of Canaan, that he might behold
a country, which his seed should inherit. The obedient Abra-
ham went with his family, including his nephew, Lot; and so-
journed in the promised land.
2. A famine compelled him to go into Egypt in pursuit of
Between what dates does this period of Ancient History find its place on
the Chronographical Picture of Nations ? What nations were known during
this period ?*
Chap. I. — 1. Who was the founder of the Jewish nation? From what
stock was he descended ? Where did he dwell ? Where was he when
God called him ? For what purpose was Abraham called to go into Canaan ?
Who accompanied him?
* We recommend to teachers to repeat these questions at the beginning of each Period.
o9
40
FAITH, FORGIVENESS, AND COMPASSION.
indent His. corn. On his return to Canaan, he divided the land with Lot,
taking the plain of Mamre, and giving to Lot the valley of the
Jordan. In an invasion of the dominions of the princes inha-
biting this valley, by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, (afterwards
Persia,) Amraphael, king of Shinar, and others, Lot was taken
prisoner. On this occasion Abraham armed his trained servants,
and making a sudden and unexpected assault upon the con-
querors, recovered Lot, the other prisoners, and the spoils. The
limited extent of the tribes, which at this time are introduced
into the records of history, may be estimated by the number
Abraham led forth in this military excursion, which was only
three hundred and eighteen.
3. Lot, by divine command, abandoned Sodom and the other
wicked cities of the plain \ when they were destroyed by fire.
Abraham removed from Mamre, and dwelt in Gerar, where he
led a peaceful life, changing the place of his tent as the wants
of his flocks and herds required ; claiming, however, the land of
Canaan as his inheritance.
4. Abraham had at this time two sons ; Ishmael, from whom
probably descended the wandering tribes of Arabia, and Isaac,
his heir, whom, in obedience to God's command, he took from
his fond and unsuspecting mother, to sacrifice upon mount Mo-
riah ; but God having tested his faith, provided a victim in the
place of the pious youth.
5. Jacob, afterwards called Israel, that son of Isaac who in-
herited the promise, had twelve sons, among whom he distin-
guished with blameable partiality, the young and amiable
Joseph. Him, therefore, his brethren envied and hated ; and
they sold him into Egypt. Here he became prime-minister to
Pharaoh, the reigning king ; and when his father pressed with
famine, sent thither his remaining sons to buy bread, Joseph,
after, having, by seeming severities, made them sensible of his
power, showed them, that he was too generous and noble to
harbor revenge. Weeping, he said to the trembling company,
" I am Joseph your brother ; be not grieved, God sent me before
you." His father Jacob removed to Egypt, with his whole fa-
mily, including Judah, in whose line was the Messiah. The
Egyptians lightly esteemed their pastoral occupation, and Joseph
assigned them, for a separate residence, the country of Goshen.
6. After the death of Joseph, the Israelites, though cruelly
treated, greatly increased in number. A deliverer of the nation
was raised up, in the person of Moses. The command of the
king of Egypt had gone forth, to slay all the male infants of the
Jews. Jochebed the wife of Amram gave birth to a son. She
concealed him for a time; but at length, in pious trust, she com-
2. Why did he go to Egypt ? With whom did he divide the land of Ca-
naan, and how did he divide it ? When Lot was taken prisoner what was the
conduct of Abraham ?— 3. What befel the wicked cities of the plain ? Whi-
ther did Abraham remove from Mamre ? — 4r. What sons had Abraham ? How
did Jehovah test the patriarch's faith ? — 5. Which son of Isaac inherited the
promise ? How many sons had Jacob ? Relate briefly the history of Jo-
seph ? — 6. How were the Israelites treated in Egypt after Joseph's death ?
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
1912.
Lot made
prisoner by
Chedorlao-
mer is re-
taken by
Abraham.
1S9T
Sodom
destroyed.
Abraham's
faith is se-
verely tried.
1?29.
Joseph sold
into Egypt.
1*06.
Jacob goes
to Egypt.
16*5.
Joseph dies.
1511.
Moses born.
THE PASSOVER INSTITUTED. 41
mitted him to God. Having made a little ark or basket, she Ancient gjfr
put the child within it, and placed him among the flags on the period ii.
brink of the river Nile. Miriam, his young sister, watched his CHAP- "•
fate. The princess of Egypt, Pharaoh's daughter, came with ^^^^>^
her maidens to bathe in the stream. She looked upon the weep-
ing child, with compassion and tenderness. She rescued him adopted by
from the water, and at Miriam's suggestion, restored him for a ^aSter*
season to the arms of his mother. The princess then adopted
him for her son, and caused him to be educated in all the learn-
ing of the Egyptians.
7. Moses was, doubtless, early made acquainted with the se-
cret of his birth, for amidst the splendors of a court, he thought
in bitterness upon the wrongs of his kindred. Seeing an Egyp-
tian smite a Hebrew, his indignation broke forth, and he slew
him. For this offence, he was obliged to flee from the face of
Pharaoh ; and he went and dwelt in the land of Midian. Here
God, who had heard the cry of the oppressed, spake to him 1494.
from the burning bush, and gave him commandment to return The
to Egypt, for the deliverance of his chosen people. Afterwards IsrpaS!stes
he was made an instrument to perform many wonderful works through the
in the sight of the Egyptians. At length, the severe judgments e sea*
of God compelled Pharaoh to consent to the departure of the
Hebrews. No sooner, however, had they left the country, than
repenting of his permission, the impious monarch pursued them
to the borders of the Red Sea. Here the man of God lifted his
mysterious wand over the waters ; they parted, and the Israel-
ites went forward, through the fearful pass. The Egyptians at-
tempting to follow, the sea closed over them.
8. The passover, a Jewish feast, was by Jehovah's command, 1491.
instituted in commemoration of the deliverance of the Israelites pasSovlr in-
from the last plague of the Egyptians ; and is the most remark- stituted.
able of the types, which foreshadowed the future coming of the
Savior of the world.
CHAPTER II.
Greece receives and sends forth Colonies.
1. Greece was originally inhabited by various tribes, of whom
the Pelasgi and the Hellenes were the most powerful. The 1856-
Pelasgi, a savage people, inhabited the Peloponnesus, and under f0ungd°^
Inachus, are said to have founded Jlrgos and Sicyon. The
6. Relate briefly the early history of Moses ?— T. How did the wrongs of
his kindred affect him, and what did he do? To what land did he flee?
What commission there receive, and in what manner ? Relate the manner
of the exode, or departure of the Israelites. — 8. Give an account of the
passover. 6
42
GREECE IN ITS EARLIEST STATE.
Ancient His-
PERIOD II.
CHAP. II.
ThePelasgi.
The Helle-
nes divided
into four
races.
1556.
Athens
founded.
1493.
Letters
brought into
Egypt.
more humane Hellenes, of whom Deucalion was leader, were
originally, a small tribe residing in the north of Thessaly ; but
becoming powerful, they spread themselves over Greece. The
Pelasgi, driven from all their possessions, except Arcadia and
the region of Dodona, are said to have migrated in various di-
rections;— to Italy, and to Crete, and other islands of the Medi-
terranean. Probably some of them resided in Thessaly, as a
district of that country has always borne their name. The
Hellenes were divided into four races, distinguished from each
other by many peculiarities of language and customs. These
were, the lonians, (of whom the principal were the Athenians •,)
the Dorians, (of whom the principal were the Spartans ;) the
JEolians, and the Jichaians. The traditionary accounts of these
early ages represent them as in a savage state, wholly ignorant
of husbandry.
2. Ce crops, bringing a colony from Egypt, prevailed upon
the inhabitants of Attica, to submit to him as their king ; he di-
vided the country into twelve districts, founded the city of
Athens, and established the Areopagus — a council of citizens
chosen for their wisdom, and wealth, and to whom was en-
trusted the power of punishing capital offences.
3. Phoenician colonies settled in Crete, in Rhodes, and in
several parts of Greece. It is said by some, that they brought
with them letters and music, and a more accurate method of
computing time, than had hitherto been adopted. Most writers
however, are of opinion, that letters were brought into Greece
by a Phoenician colony under Cadmus, who settled in Boeotia,
and founded the city of Thebes.
Chap. IT. — I. Give an account of the Pelasgi. Find on the map oi
Greece Argos and the several places mentioned. Give an account of the
Hellenes. Into what races were they divided ? — 2. Give an account of the
founding of Athens. What was the Areopagus ? — 3. Give an account of
the founding of Thebes. When and by whom were letters brought into
Greece ?
Review of the Chapter. — Who was Inachus ? Deucalion? Cecrops ?
Cadmus ? (It is recommended that teachers often question, as a review,
concerning the characters mentioned in the lesson.)
PERIOD III.
FROM
} B. C.
THE INSTITUTION > 1491. ^ OF THE PASSOVER,
TO
THE DEATH
I 980. $
CHAPTER I.
OF SOLOMON.
Palestine. — Phoenicia. — Egypt.
1. When the Israelites, under the guidance of Moses, left Egypt,
they directed their course towards the land of Canaan. While
they were encamped in the neighbourhood of Mount Sinai, God
gave them the ten commandments, or the moral law, under the
most awfully impressive circumstances. Moses, by his direc-
tion, formed a civil constitution, and enacted laws for the na-
tion. God, under his name Jehovah, was declared their king,
and hence their government was a theocracy. Purity of reli-
gious worship was the vital principle of their laws. To pre-
sent an insuperable barrier to polytheism, they were totally for-
Period III. — Chap. I. — 1. Whither went the Israelites? What occurred
at Mount Sinai? What did Moses by God's direction? What was the
Jewish government ? Why ? What was its vital principle ?
43
Ancient His.
PERI'D Hi.
CHAP. I.
44
JOSHUA.
Ancient His-
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
\fter forty
years the
promised
land is
reached.
1452
Noses dies.
Joshua suc-
ceeds
Moses.
Vindication
of the
Scriptures.
1451.
Division of
Canaan un-
der Joshua.
The Judges.
bidden to intermingle with other nations, who, at this time,.|
were universally idolaters.
2. After wandering forty years, during which the fathers of 1
the nation had descended to their graves, and their children had!
become fitted by hardships to contend with the powerful tribes ;
who were in possession of their promised inheritance ; — after
they had acquired more knowledge of the God who protected I
them, and had learned obedience to his laws, they were per- •
mitted to emerge from the wilderness, and behold spread outt
before them the object of their hopes, the land of promise. .
After having obtained a victory over the Midianites, (one of the i
tribes who inhabited this land,) and when in sight of the pro-
mised inheritance, Moses died. He was the greatest of law-
givers, the first of historians, and favored beyond all other men, ,
with direct communications from God.
3. Joshua succeeded Moses, and during a seven years' wai
with the powerful tribes who inhabited Canaan* he led on the
Israelites to conquest, and to the possession of a large portion
of the country ; when, contrary to the divine command, which
had directed the total extermination of the idolaters, and fatally for
the future peace of the nation, the Israelites laid down their arms.
4. Impious men have spoken against this command of God
given to the Jews. But he who creates, has a right to destroy,
by storm or earthquake, or by the hands of such executioners
as he shall choose ; and when he gives his commands to men
amidst such awful signs as dividing a sea, leading them by a
pillar of fire, and giving them bread from heaven, they have no
right to dispute his will. Mankind are not, however, to derive
hence, a license to persecute and destroy one another, on pre-
tences of divine intimations, drawn from uncertain sources.
5. The Jews soon surveyed the land, and divided it among the
tribes. At the death of Joshua, no successor being appointed,
the government was exercised by chiefs, called Judges. This
people now reaped the fruits of their disobedience to the divine
commands. They not unfrequently relapsed into the idolatry
of the surrounding nations, and when compelled to contend
with the tribes who dwelt within their borders, were repeatedly
delivered into their hands.
* These tribes were numerous. Among those frequently mentioned in
Scripture are the Midianites, the Amorites, the Jebusites, the Hivites, the
Hittites, the Amalekites and the Philistines. This latter nation, who in the
days of the Judges conquered the Israelites, are supposed by some to have
been a colony from Egypt. They were a sea-faring people, and worshipped
a sea-god, Dagon.
1. Why were the Jews prohibited intercourse with other nations? — 2.
What was the length of their sojourn in the wilderness ? What had hap-
pened during the time ? What good purpose was effected by these hard-
ships ? What is said of Moses ? — 3. Who was leader of the Israelites after
his death ? What did the Jews in regard to the idolatrous inhabitants of the
country ? — 4:. Why were the Jews right in obeying the commands of God,
to destroy the heathen idolaters ? Does this justify fanatical men, who pre-
tend to inward revelations, in doing similar acts ? — 5. What did the Jews
with the conquered territory ? What happened at the death of Joshua?
THE ROYAL POET.
45
6. The reign of the Judges continued about 460 years. The
most renowed among them were Deborah and Barak, Gideon,
Jephthah, and lastly, the prophet Samuel. In his days, the re-
bellious Israelites demanded a king, and Saul was appointed. He
carried on wars with the Amalekites and with the Philistines, to
whom the Israelites had previously been forty years in subjection.
7. On his death, David, the son of Jesse, who had distin-
guished himself in the Philistine wars, was called to the throne
of Judah. This young man united qualities seemingly incom-
patible. He was beautiful almost to effeminacy, and at the same
time terrible in arms. He was cool and deliberate in counsel ;
yet possessed of such tender sensibility, that he keenly felt
all the emotions of love, friendship, parental fondness — and,
finally, of that best affection of the heart, devotion to his God.
His accomplishments were no less various, combining a pro-
found knowledge of war and politics, a skill in music that
could calm the madness of Saul, and a talent for poetry, which
in the department of sacred song, has, to this day, never been
equalled. To this talent, directed by inspiration, we owe the
inimitable Psalms. Such was David, beloved by God and man.
Yet even he sinned ; but being rebuked of God, by the prophet
Nathan, he humbled himself, and bitterly repented. Hence we
find, in his devotional poems, a deep strain of penitential humility.
8. David becoming sole monarch of all the tribes of Israel,
he restored the purity of worship, which, under Saul, had de-
clined. He took Jebus, a strong fortress, which had remained
in possession of the Jebusites, and on its site he built the city
of Jerusalem, in which he resided. He conquered the Philis-
tines, Edomites, and Moabites. He made Syria a Jewish pro-
vince, and extended his frontiers to the farthest limits of the pro-
mised land. He formed an alliance with the Tyrians, and from
them obtained many valuable articles of merchandise. He made
many costly preparations for building a temple for the worship
of God ; but left the execution of his design, to Solomon, his son
and successor.
9. Solomon early made wisdom his choice ; and while he
kept it, his nation was elevated to its utmost height of splendor
and power. He was surrounded by bold and designing ene-
mies, but he triumphed over them. His foreign treaties se-
cured the peace of his kingdom ; and his alliance with Hiram,
king of Tyre, furnished many of the splendid decorations of his
magnificent temple. In his later years, Solomon fell into the
sins of licentiousness and idolatry, and thus lost the favor of
God, and brought distress upon his country.
Ancient His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
1055,
David
reigns over
Judah.
David in
some re-
spects the
most re-
markable of
kings.
1048.
Reigns over
all Israel.
He founds
Jerusalem.
1004
Solomon
builds the
temple.
He falls into
sin and
loses his
prosperity.
6. How long continued the reign of the Judges ? Which were the most
eminent ? Give an account of Saul? — T. Who was David ? What was re-
markable in his character ? What in his accomplishments ? By whom was
David rebuked? Was he too proud to repent? — 8. What did David be-
come ? What acts did he perform ? Who succeeded him ? — '9. What ac-
count can you give of Solomon during the different parts of his reign f
What did Solomon procure of Hiram ? Who was Hiram ?
46
THE PYRAMIDS.
Ancient His.
PERPD III.
CHAP. I.
(»26T
Tyre found-
ed, accord-
ing to Dr.
Hales.)
Sidon, the
oldest city,
eclipsed by
Tyre.
Lake Moeris.
Sesostris
about
125©.
His great
empire and
edifices.
1183.
Ramases.
1082.
Cheops
builds the
first
pyramid.
10. Jerusalem had become enriched by the residence of the
court, but the country around was impoverished. At length,
Solomon had the mortification of losing Syria ; which threw off
the yoke of Israel, and became an independent nation. The
peace of his declining days was farther disturbed by the insur-
rection of Jeroboam and the Edomites. He died after a reign
of forty years.
1 1. Phoenicia, was the earliest commercial nation, and was
at this period powerful and wealthy. The Phoenicians excelled
in manufactures of various kinds. They monopolized the trade
of the west, and are supposed to have visited Britain. They
had colonies in Sicily, the north of Africa, and the Persian
Gulf. Some attribute to them the invention of letters, which, it
is believed, they carried into Europe. Tyre, the capital, was
in its most flourishing state between 1000 and 332 B. C. The
several cities of Phoenicia possessed independent kings, but
they united in a league or confederacy.
12. EGYPT. — In the reign of Moeris, who is regarded as
the wisest of the Egyptian kings, the lake Moeris is said to have
been excavated. This is one of the most wonderful works of
Egypt, and was designed to remedy the inconvenience arising
from the irregular inundations of the Nile. It communicated
with the river by a canal, having sluices which opened or shut
either the canal or the lake, as there was occasion. Sesostris
is the most renowned of the kings of Egypt, and in his reign
the empire reached its utmost extent. He first conquered Ethio-
pia, and then overran all the southern part of Asia as far as
India. Some believe him to be the same, with that Pharaoh,
who in the pride of his power refused to let Israel depart, and
was swallowed up in the Red Sea ; but he is generally regarded
as much later. To Sesostris is attributed the building of the
great sepulchral temple at Thebes, and many other of those
wonderful monuments of antiquity, of which the astonished tra-
veller still finds the stupendous remains.
13. Ramases or Proteus, is mentioned as a king who kept
a sumptuous and hospitable court. Cheops is regarded as the
builder of the first pyramid ; Shishak, the invader of the Jews,
as that of the second, and Mycerinus, of the third. The Egyp-
tians were, as the inhabitants of India now are, divided into
castes. Of these, the lowest were herdsmen, and the highest
were priests. These, we have reason to believe, had one reli-
gious belief for themselves, and taught another to the people ;
thus making wicked merchandise of that religious sensibility,
which God has given to man, as an evidence that there do exist
lO. What happened to Solomon in his later years ? How long was his
reign?— 11. What account can you give of Phoenicia? In what did the
Phoenicians excel ? Where did they go, and what invent? What can you
say of the capital ? — 12. What were the most distinguished kings of
Egypt during this period ? For what was the reign of Moeris distinguish-
ed ? What can you say of Sesostris? — 13. What of Ramases? What
kings erected the pyramids ? How were the Egyptians divided ? What ac-
count can you give of the priests ?
FABULOUS GODS OF THE ANCIENTS. 47
spiritual influences, and supernatural powers. The idolatry Anctent H™-
which the Egyptian priests taught the people was of a gross perpd hi.
kind. One of their gods, Jlnnubis, was represented with a dog's CHAP- n.
head ; another, Apis, was worshipped in the form of an ox ; v-^i^v^%^
Isis, in that of a cow; and Osiris was often pictured as having
the face of a foul-bird.
CHAPTER II.
Greece. — Troy.
1. The early history of the ancient world is so intermingled
with fable, that it is impossible to separate truth from falsehood.
The mythology of the Greeks was in part borrowed from that The Greek
of the Egyptians ; and in part, the production of their own vivid Mythology.
fancy, aided in some cases, as in that of the demi-gods, by tra-
ditionary exploits. The Greeks, and afterwards the Romans,
regarded as the oldest of the Superior Gods, Saturn, or Chro-
nos, signifying in Greek, " Time," who was the son of Uranus,
the heavens, and Titaea, the earth. Janus, under whom, with Sa-
turn, was the golden age of peace, had a temple at Rome, which
was shut whenever peace actually occurred. Rhea, was the
wife of Saturn. Jupiter, the king of gods and men, dethroned his
father Saturn. He held his court on Mount Olympus, in Thessaly, The supe-
with his wife, the proud and jealous Juno. Besides these were seyentf enSjn
Neptune, god of the sea ; Apollo, the ruler of the sun, and god number,
of music, poetry, and eloquence, with whom were associated the
Nine Muses ; Diana, goddess of the moon and of chastity ;
Minerva, goddess of wisdom, especially worshipped at Athens;
Mars, god of war; Venus, goddess of beauty and love; Vul-
can, god of artists who mould iron by fire ; Mercury, the swift
winged messenger, patron of those who get wealth, whether by
honest or dishonest means ; Bacchus, the inebriate god of wine ;
Ceres, goddess of harvests; Vesta, of fire; and Pluto, the
god and judge of Hades, or the place of departed spirits.
2. As Inferior Gods, the ancients reckoned Sol, the sun;
Luna, the moon ; Nox, the night ; Aurora, the morn, with
many other natural objects and general ideas, such as Fortune, indefinite
&c. There was much that was highly poetical in this system nu™ber °f
of idolatry, but unhappily, it was baneful to the virtue of the 'gods?'
nations, whose common people (but not their philosophers) be-
lieved in, and worshipped such a motley set of immoral divinities ;
Chap. II. — 1. Can we now separate the true from the false in ancient
story ? From what did the Greeks derive their mythology ? How many
(count them,) are there of those they called superior gods ? Give the name
and character of each ? — 2. What were reckoned among the inferior deities?
"What can you say of this system of idolatry ?
48
THE DEMIGODS. THE FOUR GAMES.
Ancient His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. II.
The priests.
1326.
Theseus,
makes
Athens a re-
public. In-
stitutes the
Isthmian
games.
Hercules.
The four
public
games.
7T6
Greeks
begin to
reckon by
Olympiads
1400.
Laws of
Minos.
" all of whom," said Mr. Perdicaris, an eloquent Greek, " were
believed to have committed crimes, which, had they been perpe-
trated in Connecticut, would have sent them to the State's pri-
son." There were priests dedicated to the service of particular
divinities, but they were not, like those of Egypt, a separate
and distinct class of persons. The same man was often,
at the same time, a priest and a military commander.
3. The first of the demigods was Theseus, who it is said went
about slaying monsters, and performing other wonderful deeds,
sometimes of heroism and sometimes of perfidy. Acts of poli-
tical importance are, however, ascribed to him. He is said to
have introduced into Athens a republican government, and to
have delivered that city from a barbarous tribute exacted by the
king of Crete, of seven youths and seven virgins, sent to that
island once in nine years, to be sacrificed. He instituted the
Isthmian games. Hercules was, however, the most renowned
of all the demigods. He is represented as the personification
of masculine strength, with a lion's skin over his shoulders, and
a club in his hand, in honor of his slaying the terrible lion
which infested the Nemean forest This was reckoned the ca-
pital exploit of his " twelve labors."
4. The public games formed a part of the religious ceremo-
nies of the ancient Greeks. The four principal were, the
Olympic, celebrated at Olympus once in four years, in honor of
Jupiter Olympus. The Olympic games were instituted in re-
mote antiquity, by whom is uncertain, but it was not until 776
B. C, that the Greeks began to reckon time by Olympiads, one
Olympiad being four years. The Pythian games were in honor
of Apollo Pythius ; the Nemean were celebrated once in two
years, and the Isthmian, on the isthmus of Corinth, in honor of
Neptune, once in four years. The exercises consisted in racing,
wrestling, boxing, &c, and success in them was an object of
the highest ambition. The prize awarded to the victor was a
simple wreath. In the Olympic games it was composed of
wild olive, in the Pythian of laurel, and in the others of
parsley.
5. The laws and institutions ascribed to Minos, who called
himself the son of Jupiter, and reigned over Crete, were reck-
oned as models of wisdom among the surrounding nations.
Attica, freed from the bloody wars which disturbed the other
states of Greece, made more rapid advances towards civilization.
On account of the security of its situation, it became a refuge
for the wealthy from all parts of Greece, and the increase of its
population early enabled it to send colonies into Asia. Am-
2. What difference was there between the priests of the Greeks and the
Egyptians ? 3. Who was the first of the demigods ? Who the most re-
nowned ? — 4r. What were the public games ? Give an account of the
Olympian ? Of the three others ? In what exercises did the combatants
contend at the games ? What was the prize of victory ? — 5. Who was
king of Crete ? What was the reputation of his laws? What account can
you give of Attica at this time ?
HISTORY AND POETIC TALES. 49
phictyon, the third king of Athens, established the celebrated Ancient Hh.
Amphictyonic Council. This was a confederacy of twelve perpd hi.
cities, whose petty princes met at Delphi, twice a year, to con- chap. n.
cert measures for their common safety, and to settle disputes s<ry*aM
arising between members of the union. They adopted, at this
early period, the rule that none of the states belonging to the
confederacy should be destroyed by the others.
6. Thus, in remote antiquity, do we find the germ of the
only legitimate principle of government among men, union for The germ of
the purposes of peace and mutual protection. The United States legitimate
of America exhibit this principle in greater perfection, and on a governmen •
more magnificent scale ; and we may indulge the hope, that a
time will come, when all nations becoming christianized, shall
appoint delegates to meet and amicably settle their disputes,
thus ushering in, the predicted reign of universal peace.
7. About this time is supposed to have occurred the cele-
brated expedition of the Argonautic adventurers. According to
ancient tradition, they went to Colchis in search of the " golden
fleece," which, by some is supposed to mean the riches of that 1263°
kingdom. This bold enterprise was conducted by the heroic expedition0
Jason, who, gaining the affections of Medea, the daughter of the
king, a beautiful, but cruel sorceress, he obtained, by means of
her enchantments, the object of his search. Leaving a colony
on the shores of the Euxine, he departed, carrying away the
golden fleece, and the beautiful sorceress, whom he had married.
Afterwards deserting her for Glaucae, daughter of the king of
Athens, Medea, in jealousy and rage, put her own children to
death, that she might be avenged on Jason, their father.
8. Of the ancient city of Troy nothing is known, except
through the uncertain media of poetry and tradition. These fix
the date of Teucer, the first sovereign, at about 1400 B. C. 1Aftft
The siege of Troy, by the confederated princes of Greece, is re- Teucer, first
lated on the authority of the poet Homer. Greece, according king' of
to his account, was divided into many small states, of which roy*
Mycenae and Argos were the principal. These, with Achaia
and Corinth, were under the dominion of Agamemnon, whose
brother, Menelaus, was king of Sparta and the adjacent country.
9. The offence of Paris, the son of Priam, king of Troy, in 1173.
stealing away the beautiful Helen, the wife of Menelaus, after he Tr.oy be-
had been hospitably entertained by her husband, roused the (Greek army
indignation of the Grecian princes, who had previously been 100'000- No-
O x * jl j q* VGSS61S
united in a league. They resolved to rescue the princess, and pun- 1,200.) '
ish the offender. The confederates assembled at Aulis in Boeotia.
5. What council was established? By whom? Where did it meet?
How often ? For what purpose ? What principle did it adopt ? — 6. What
is the only legitimate principle of government ? Where is this carried out
on a larger scale than in ancient Greece ? What hope of the future may be
indulged? — T. Give an account of the Argonautic expedition. — 8. From
what do we derive our accounts of ancient Troy ? What does Homer re-
late of the situation of Greece ? — 9. What was the object of the Grecian
princes ? What was the number of the confederated army ? Their
vessels ?
7
50
THE DORIANS, IONIANS, AND ^EOLIANS.
■Ancient His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. II.
1163.
Troy burnt
by the
Greeks.
1104.
War of the
Heraclidae.
Sparta, a
Dorian city.
Athens, an
Ionian city.
1124.
jEolian
colonies led
by Penthi-
lus, Arche-
tans, and
Grais.
Dorians in-
vade Attica.
Agamemnon was the leader of the Greeks, among whom, was Me-
nelaus, the wise Ulysses from Ithaca, old Nestor from Pylos,
Ajax Telamon, and Ajax the less, and especially the lion of the
host, the beautiful and brave Achilles, who slew Hector, the
hero of Troy. After a long siege of ten years, the Greeks
took and burned Troy, and recovered Helen. On their return,
they found their country in a distracted and suffering condition.
During the absence of their kings, others had assumed their
rights and authority ; and for a series of years nothing is heard
of in Greece, but a continual succession of wars and disorders.
10. The " War of the Heraclidae," occurred eighty years after-
wards, between the families of Perseus and Pelops, who had
anciently contended for the sovereignty of the Peloponnesus.
Hercules, was the great grandson of Perseus, and from him the
Perseid family were called the Heraclidae. They had been ex-
pelled from the Peloponnesus by the Pelopidae, (or the race of
Pelops,) and were now princes of Doris, a small rugged tract
of country among the mountains of JEta and Parnassus. They
at length, conquered the Pelopidae, and made themselves mas-
ters of the Peloponnesus. The principal chiefs divided the
cities by lot. Sparta fell to Aristodemus, who dying, Eurys-
thenes and Procles, his infant twins, were proclaimed joint
kings of Lacedaemon, and each became the founder of a royal
race. From this time the Dorians had a preponderance in the
Peloponnesus, and Lacedaemon, or Sparta, acquired the supre-
macy.
11. Of the old inhabitants, who were of Ionian descent, some
sought refuge among their brethren at Athens. Great numbers
emigrated, and of these, the iEolians went to the north-western
part of Asia Minor, where they built twelve cities, of which
Smyrna was the principal. On the island of Lesbos they built
five, of which the largest was Mytihne. Those of the con-
quered who remained in the Peloponnesus were made slaves.
12. The Spartans were indignant against the Athenians for
having given refuge to the inhabitants who fled from the Pelo-
ponnesus, and they invaded Attica. The oracle of Apollo at
Delphi,* had promised success to their arms, on condition that
* The oracle at the city of Delphi was established at an unknown and
very remote period of antiquity. This city was near the gulf of Corinth, in
a solitary recess of Mount Parnassus, where was a cavern, from which arose
sulphureous gas, supposed to possess the power of imparting prophetic in-
spiration. A female called the Pythia, seated upon a three legged stool,
called a tripod, was exposed to the fumes of the gas, and in this condition
her frantic and unmeaning responses were recorded by the cunning priests,
who reported them to suit their own purposes. An immense power was
thus wielded by the priests of Apollo, who ministered at this altar of super
9. Who were the principal chiefs of the Greeks ? Who was the hero of
Troy ? What is the date of the destruction of Troy ? What was the con-
dition of Greece afterwards ?— lO. Between what families was the war of the
Heraclidre ? From whom were they named ? By whom had they been
expelled ? What was the result of the war ? — 11. What became of the old
inhabitants of the Peloponnesus? — 1£. Give an account of the invasion of
Attica. Give some account of the oracle at Delphi. (See note.)
THE PATRIOT KING. 51
they should not kill Codrus, the Athenian king. Codrus, on -&ncient H**-
learning this, disguised himself as a peasant, entered the Do- perpd hi.
rian camp, provoked a quarrel, and was killed. On the news chap. ii.
of his death, the superstitious army of the invaders immediately ^*~v^*s
retreated. A dispute arising between the sons of Codrus re-
specting the succession, it was decided that no person was 'Jcty* e
.l_ . J ±l i. • • mi re r The °ffice of
worthy to succeed that magnanimous sovereign. 1 he office of king aboi-
king was therefore abolished, and that of Archon substituted in A1JeM and
its stead. To this office, Medon, the eldest son of Codrus, was that of Ar-
first elected. The office was to be held during life, and to be created,
hereditary ; but the Archon was made accountable to the as-
sembly/ of the people.
13. About this time the lonians founded colonies in Asia
Minor, south of the iEolian colonies. . They took possession 1055.
of the islands of Samos and Chios, and of a part of Lydia and foJScofo-
Caria, which from them received the name of Ionia. They nies in Asia
built many cities, of which Ephesus was the principal, and es-
tablished in each an independent government.
stition for a series of ages ; and enjoyed the wealth here lavished by a deluded
people. Similar oracles existed in other parts of Greece.
12. Who was the last king of Athens? How did he sacrifice himself
for his country ? Who was the first archon ? What can you say of the
office of archon ? — 13. Give an account of the Ionian colonies of Asia Mi-
nor. In what direction were they from the iEolian ?
Burial of Solomon
PERIOD IV
FROM
^ B. C. ^
THE DEATH £ 980. ^ OF SOLOMON-
TO
THE FOUNDATION > 752. ^ OF ROME, BY ROMULUS.
CHAPTER I.
The Hebrews, or Jews.
1. The history of the Jews is always interesting to Chris- Ancient ms
tians, from its association with that religion from which our
most assured hopes of immortality are derived ; but at this pe-
riod it is so, of itself considered. The wonderful genius of
David had extended, the Hebrew dominion from the Euphrates
to the Mediterranean, and from Phoenicia to the Red Sea. He
had also amassed large treasures, so that Solomon was the most
powerful and wealthy prince of his age. The alliance with
Tyre, introduced a commerce, which enriched the capital and
the court ; but it brought habits of luxury, and the people were
grievously taxed. Rehoboam, the son of Solomon ascended
the throne. The people pressed him to redress their griev-
ances. He replied, " My father made your yoke heavy, but I
will add to your yoke." Ten tribes revolted • they recalled Je-
roboam, the son of Nebat, who after an unsuccessful insurrec-
tion during the life of Solomon, had fled into Egypt, and de-
clared him their king. Thus the Hebrew nation became divided
into the two kingdoms of Judah and Israel.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. I.
Alliance
with Tyre.
Rehoboam.
Chapter I. — 1. Why is the history of the Jews interesting to Christians ?
Who extended the Hebrew dominion? How far? How does it appear
that David was economical ? What effect had the alliance with Tyre upon
the Jewish nation ? Who succeeded Solomon ? What was his character ?
What petition did he receive ? How reply ?
53
Israel sins.
Judea in-
54 THE KINGDOMS OF JUDAH AND ISRAEL.
-Ancient His. 2. Prophecy had foretold, that the Messiah should be born of
perpd iv. the tribe of Judah, and of the family of David. Besides that
chap. i. tribe, there remained to Rehoboam, the representative of this
family, only the tribe of Benjamin ; the other ten under Jero-
boam, constituting the kingdom of Israel. Of these two king-
doms, although Jsrael was the larger, and more populous, yet
Judah, possessing the chief city, was the richer ; and their power
being nearly equal, their contests were obstinate and destructive.
3. Jeroboam, fearing that the national worship at Jerusalem
would draw away his subjects, " caused Israel to sin," by estab-
lishing in his kingdom a species of idolatry. Judea was in-
vaded by Shishak,* king of Egypt, who pillaged the temple and
the king's house, and carried away the spoils. After a reign of
seventeen years, Rehoboam was succeeded by his son Abijah,
vaded by the who, in an attempt to recover Israel, obtained a victory over Je-
Egyptians. roboam. Asa, his successor, opposed idolatry and encouraged
the subjects of Jeroboam to return to their obedience, and to
955. come up to the great national feasts at Jerusalem. During the
reign of this pious prince, Judea was peaceful and prosperous.
4. The Israelites receded farther and farther from the religion
of their ancestors. Samaria was founded, and made the capital
of Israel, by Omri. Syria had become independent, and Ben-
91§. hadad, its king, declared war against Israel, but he was repelled
Baal, the by Ahab the son of Omri, a powerful but wicked and idolatrous
idol, set up king. Elijah fearlessly encountered four hundred priests of
f°by AhabiP Baal, tne Phoenician idol set up for worship by Ahab : and al-
though God, by sending from heaven upon Elijah's sacrifice, the
fire for which he prayed, accredited him as his prophet, still he
jehosaphat was not regarded. Asa, king of Judah, after a long reign, was
^fiiance0 succeeded by his worthy son, Jehosaphat, who entered into
with Ahab. an alliance with the king of Israel, and married his son Jehoram
to Athaliah, daughter of Ahab.
5. Jehu, who had succeeded to the throne of Israel, determin-
ing to extirpate the family of Ahab, slew among others, Aha-
ziah, then king of Judah and son of Athaliah. This cruel wo-
cmeity. man now caused her son's children to be put to death, that she
* According to learned conjecture, of Egyptian antiquities, this king had
two daughters. The elder, remarkably beautiful, was that " sister spouse"
of Solomon, to whom it is supposed the Canticles were addressed, and the
other subsequently became the wife of Jeroboam. The sons of Shishak,
the "angry brothers" of Solomon's wife, were, it seems, displeased that
their sister was subordinate in the harem to the mother of his heir, and this,
it is conjectured, led to the Egyptian invasion.
1. Who was Jeroboam? Who made him their king? What two na-
tions now existed in Judea ?— % Of how many, and what tribes was each
composed ? What advantages did each possess ? — 3. What is further related
of Jeroboam ? What disastrous invasion of Judea is related ? Who was
king of Israel next after Rehoboam ? Who next, and what was his char-
acter ? — 4. What was the condition of the kingdom of Israel ? What became
its capital? By whom founded? Who invaded that kingdom? By
whom was it defended ? What idol was set up ? By whom ? What pro-
phet opposed this impiety ? Who was Jehosaphat ? What alliance was
entered into? — 5. What was done by Jehu
914.
55
might reign in Jerusalem. But the design of God, that of -Ancient in*.
the seed of David should come the Messiah, was not thus to perpd iv.
be frustrated. One infant was saved from the massacre by the chap. ii.
compassionate Jehoshaba, wife of Jehoida, the high priest. He ^-^"^^w
was concealed for six years ; and at the age of seven, proclaimed
king in the temple, by the name of Joash. Athaliah heard the
shout, and rushed into the temple, crying treason ! treason ! But
she was seized and put to death. Several bloody wars took
place, between Israel and Syria, during one of which occurred
the distressing siege of Samaria.
Her grand-
son Joash
made king.
CHAPTER II.
Carthage. — Greece.
1. About this period, a colony of Phoenicians from Tyre,
under Dido their queen, settled on the shores of Africa, and
built Carthage. As this event happened so much later than the
destruction of Troy, the story cannot be true, which is told by
Virgil, of the visit to this queen of iEneas, who had escaped
from the flames of that city.
2. Sthens was now under the government of hereditary
archons, and was gradually acquiring power and rank among
the states of Greece. . Lycurgus was of the family of the Her-
aclidae, and commonly reckoned the tenth in descent from Her-
cules. By his magnanimity in preserving the crown of Sparta
for the infant son of a deceased brother, when it was offered to
himself, he obtained among the people great and deserved popu-
larity ; and during the minority of his nephew, the government
was placed in his hands. He gave to Sparta a new and singu-
lar constitution, the chief aim of which was to banish luxury,
instil public spirit in the place of private interest, and to increase
the power of the state, by making it a nation of soldiers.
3. Lycurgus procured a new and equal distribution of land.
He compelled every citizen to eat at a public table, where the
food was of the simplest kind, and the conversation grave and
instructive. He banished commerce and all superfluous arts
from Sparta; and forbade the use of any other money than iron
coin. He established a senate of twenty-eight members, to be
elected by the people, over whom the two kings of Sparta were
to preside; also an assembly of the people, which had the
power of repealing or sanctioning the decrees of the senate.
4:. Relate the history of Joash ?
Chapter II. — 1 . Who was Dido ? For what is she distinguished ? What
has Virgil related ? Why can this not be true ? — %. What was the condi-
tion of Athens during this period ? Who was Lycurgus ? How did he be-
come popular in Sparta ? What did he give to Sparta ? — 3. What were the
principal of his institutions ?
sm
Carthage
founded by
Dido.
Athens.
884.
Lycurgus,
a Spartan
prince.
Laws of
Lycurgus
tend to
make a na-
tion of sol-
diers.
56
THE FAMOUS CONSTITUTION OP LYCURGUS.
Ancient His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. II.
The Spar-
tans sacri-
fice private
to public
virtue.
Self-devo-
tion of
Lycurgus.
886.
Lycurgus
finds the
poems of
Homer.
Death of Ly-
curgus.
The children of the Spartans were taken from their parents as
the property of the state; the males were trained to arms, and
the females rendered hardy and vigorous by exercise and tem-
perance. Mothers were taught to rejoice when their sons fell
in defence of their country ; and courage was placed first among
good qualities. The Spartans were allowed neither fleets nor
walls.
4. The institutions of Lycurgus were far from promoting
those social affections and domestic virtues, so essential to indi-
vidual happiness. The youth were directed to steal messes,
herbs, &c, from the public halls and gardens ; but, if detected,
they were severely punished. The design was, by teaching
them to become dexterous and cunning, to render them more
fit for the stratagems of war. A boy having stolen a young fox and
hid it in his bosom, suffered it to tear out his vitals, rather than
bear the detection of his theft. The Lacedaemonians were for-
bidden to follow agriculture, or to cultivate mechanic arts. All
servile offices were assigned to the Helots* or slaves, who were
treated with great severity. Having bound his countrymen by
an oath, to observe his laws until he returned, Lycurgus left
Sparta, and returned no more ; thus seeking to insure the per-
manency of his institutions by a voluntary banishment. During
the 500 years in which the Lacedaemonians adhered to these
laws, they were a powerful people.
5. Lycurgus having labored for the good of his own state,
travelled over the other portions of Greece. Journeying to
Asia, he beheld, with delight, the prosperous condition of the
Asiatic colonies. There he discovered the poems of Homer,
which he made known to the Dorian conquerors of the Pelo-
ponnesus. These poems constitute one of the greatest wonders
of mankind. By them we see poetry, the chief of human arts,
brought forth at once in its full perfection, by a poet whose
birth-place is unknown, and who was probably poor and ob-
scure;— yet to whom, the geography of Greece and Asia Minor
was certainly known, and probably its early history.
6. According to Plutarch, Lycurgus committed suicide, putting
an end to his life by severe abstinence ; but Lucian says, he
died a natural death at the age of eighty-five.
* These were so called from Helos, a Laconian town, subdued by the
Spartans, who took the inhabitants prisoners, and reduced them to the con-
dition of slavery. Other slaves were afterwards called Helots.
3. What was the character of these institutions in regard to patriotism or
the love of country ? — 4. What in regard to individual happiness and virtue ?
What was forbidden to the Spartans ? By whom were servile offices to
be performed ? Why were they called Helots ? (See note.) What method
did Lycurgus take to ensure permanency to his laws? — 5. What did he
observe in Asia Minor ? What did Lycurgus discover ? What do these
poems constitute ? — 6. What accounts are given of the death of Lycurgus ?
Romulus marking out the limits of Rome.
PERIOD V.
FROM
B. C.
THE FOUNDATION £ T52. ^ OF ROME, BY ROMULUS,
TO
l 323. J,
THE DEATH OF
ALEXANDER THE GREAT.
CHAPTER I.
Assyria. — Judea and Israel. — Egypt.
1. The sovereign power of Assyria was in the hands of the
profligate Sardanapalus, the last and worst of an effeminate race
of princes, when Arbaces, governor of Media, and Belesis,
governor of Babylon, headed a revolt of the oppressed and mur-
muring people. Sardanapalus, besieged in Nineveh, his capi-
tal, and too weak to attempt defence, ordered the erection of a
funeral pile in his own palace, on which he burnt himself with
his wives and treasure. Thus ended the first Assyrian empire ;
having existed more than 1450 years.
2. Upon its ruins were raised three kingdoms, Babylon, Me-
dia, and Nineveh, or Assyria. Belesis, or Nabonasser, was the
first monarch of Babylon; and to him succeeded Merodach Ba-
ladan. Tiglath-Pileser was the first king of Nineveh after the
destruction of the ancient Assyrian empire. He was solicited
for aid by Ahaz, when Judea was invaded by the kings of Israel
and Damascus.* He immediately marched an army into Pales-
* Syria was not, strictly speaking, a kingdom, for the small cities of which
it was composed were not connected under one government; but just before
this period, its chief city, Damascus, had subjected most of the smaller cities,
and was formed into the kingdom of Damascus.
Period V. — Chap. I. — 1. What is said of Sardanapalus? What hap-
pened in his reign ? — 2. What three kingdoms are mentioned ? From what
empire were they formed ? Who were the first kings of Babylon ?
Ancient His,
PERIOD V.
CHAP. I.
Tiglath-Pi-
leser sub-
dues all
east of the
Jordan.
60
THE ASSYRIANS DISTRESS THE JEWS.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. I.
721-
Shalmane-
ser carries
away the
ten tribes.
717.
Senna-
cherib.
Hezekiah.
Miraculous
destruction
of Senna-
cherib's
host.
796.
Manasseh.
677-
Esarhaddon
takes Jeru-
salem, but
restores it.
tine, invaded Syria, possessed himself of Damascus, subdued
Hosea, the king of Israel, took possession of all the lands on the
farther side of Jordan, and even exacted tribute from Ahaz. .
Thus this king, in freeing Judah from the Syrians and Israelites, ,
had introduced a more dangerous enemy.
3. The throne of Assyria was next occupied by Shalmane- •
ser. He besieged Samaria, which after enduring unexampled I
horrors from famine, was compelled to surrender; and the ten i
tribes now suffering the punishment of their continued idolatry ■
and disobedience, were carried into captivity. Great numbers i
of them were transplanted into a mountainous region in the in- •
terior of Asia ; and from this time history is silent with respect ;
to the fate of these lost tribes.
4. Shalmaneser next besieged the wealthy city of Tyre. ,
This siege, in which the Tyrians resisted him with the most
invincible courage for five years, at length came to an end by
his death. Sennacherib, who succeeded him, demanded of '
Hezekiah, the reigning king of Judah, a heavy tribute. After '
this, he marched a powerful army into Egypt, and besieged Pe-
lusium. The Egyptians checked his progress by a vigorous re- •
sistance. He returned and sent again to Hezekiah, demanding
the surrender of Jerusalem. The inhabitants were in conster-
nation. The fate of the ten tribes was vivid in their recollec-
tion, and they looked fearfully forward to the destruction of their
beloved city. The prophet Isaiah exhorted the king to trust
in the God of Israel, assuring him that the power of the Assy-
rian should be broken. At midnight the Lord sent to the camp i
the angel of death; and in the morning one hundred and eighty-
five thousand of the proud Assyrians lay dead on the plain.
The humbled Sennacherib hasted to return to his capital, and
was soon after assassinated.
5. Hezekiah was succeeded on the throne of Judah by his
son, the imperious and profligate Manasseh. Esarhaddon, son
of Sennacherib, and monarch of Assyria, taking advantage of the
internal troubles of Babylon, made himself master of that city,
and reunited it to the Assyrian empire. Syria and Palestine,
after the defeat of Sennacherib, had thrown off their allegiance.
Esarhaddon recovered them, and then removed from their coun-
try the remnant of the Israelites ; transplanting at the same time
into the cities of Samaria, an idolatrous people from the coun-
tries beyond the Euphrates. He took Jerusalem, and carried
away prisoner Manasseh, the wicked king of Judah ; but after
a few years he released him, and restored to him his kingdom.
6. Jo si ah restored the purity of the national worship, re-
paired the temple, and extirpated idolatry from the land. But
2. Give some account of Tiglath-Pileser in connexion with Jewish his-
tory.— 3. Who succeeded him on the throne of Assyria ? For what memo-
rable events of Jewish history is his reign remarkable ? Is any thing now
known of the " ten tribes ?" — 4:. Give an account of the siege of Tyre.
What account can you give of Sennacherib ? — 5. What was the character
of Manasseh ? Whom did he succeed ? What was done in reference to
the Jews in his reign, by the Assyrians ?
DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM. 61
his virtues suspended for a time only, the fatal decree, which indent His.
had gone forth against a rebellious people, la the wars be- period v .
tween Necho, king of Egypt, and the Assyrians, Josiah opposed chap. i.
the passage of the Egyptians through Judea. A battle was ^~v~^
fought between him and the Egyptian king in the valley of Me- f>©9.
giddo. The Jews were overthrown and Josiah mortally meqiddo
wounded ; when N echo marched to Assyria, and conquered se- defeat ije
veral cities. He then returned to Jerusalem, took the city, de- Jews,
throned Jehoahaz, the youngest son of Josiah, and made Je-
hoiakim king. The success of Necho, in his war against the
Babylonians, encouraged the Syrians and Jews to throw off the
Assyrian yoke.
7. Nebuchadnezzar, who was at this period associated
with his father, Nabopolassar, in the government of Assyria,
was the most powerful prince that had yet reigned over the Nebuchad.
Assyrian empire. He recovered from the Egyptians, Carche- nezzar
mish, an Assyrian city, which commanded the passage of the ^uSem?"
Euphrates, and which Necho had taken. He then marched
against Syria and Palestine, and reunited both provinces to his
dominions. He took Jerusalem, and carried away many cap-
tives and much treasure, including the sacred vessels of the
temple.
8. Mattaniah or Zedekiah, the third in succession from Je-
hoiakim, revolted from the Assyrians. Nebuchadnezzar reap- ~~~
peared before the walls of Jerusalem. The inhabitants, expect- He takes the
ing succor from Egypt, maintained an obstinate resistance for clty q"^6,"
nearly a year. The city was at length taken by storm, when first temple,
the vengeance of the Babylonians was wreaked upon its inha-
bitants. The children of the Jewish king were murdered in
the presence of their father, his eyes were put out, and he was
carried captive to Babylon. The inhabitants and the remaining
treasures were carried away; and the temple, the dwellings, and
the fortifications levelled to the dust.
9. Four years after the destruction of Jerusalem, Nebuchad- 5S5.
nezzar besieged Tyre. But . not until thirteen years did he p^nfiL
make himself master of that strong and opulent city. During Takes Tyre,
the seige, the inhabitants retired with their most valuable effects,
to an island not far distant, where they built the new city of
Tyre. Nebuchadnezzar next invaded and subdued Egypt, Ravageg
which though among the most powerful and warlike of the Egypt.
ancient nations, was now rent by intestine divisions, and
weakened by rebellion. The footsteps of his army were
every where marked with such horrible devastation, that forty \s punished
years were not sufficient to repair their ravages. On his return ^Jjj^j
to Babylon, his mind being lifted up, and his heart hardened
6. What king of Judah restored the national worship? In what battle
was he mortally wounded? Give some account of Necho. — T. Who were
the kings of Assyria ? — &. What account can you give of Nebuchadnezzar's
acts in reference to the Jews? — 9. What of Nebuchadnezzar's conduct in
regard to the Phoenicians? What in regard to Egypt? What happened on
his return to Babylon ?
62
THE MEDES CONQUER ASSYRIA.
Ancient His.
?10.
Dejoces
founds
Media.
658.
Phraortes
conquers
Persia.
634.
Cyaxares.
The
Scythians
Invade
Media.
The
kingdom of
Lydia ap-
pears in his-
tory.
612.
Nineveh
destroyed.
with pride, the Almighty deposed him from his kingly throne,
and drove him from the dwellings of men. His body was wet
with the dew of heaven, and he ate the food of beasts, until he
knew " that God ruleth over the kingdoms of men."
10. MEDIA. — Dejoces established the first monarchy of Me-
dia. His efforts were directed to the improvement of the savage and
licentious manners then prevailing among the people ; and dur-
ing a reign of fifty-three years, he preserved the nation in peace.
He founded the city of Ecbatana, and made it the capital of his
kingdom. Dejoces was succeeded by his son Phraortes, who
extended the kingdom of Media, by the conquest of Persia ; and
subjected to his dominions almost all Upper Asia, from Mount
Taurus to the river Halys. Cyaxares, his son and successor,
invaded Assyria, defeated the Assyrian army, and laid siege to
Nineveh. . But he was recalled by a danger which threatened
his own kingdom.
11. The Scythians were a barbarous nation, who inhabited
the north of Europe. They were unacquainted with the arts
and sciences, ignorant of agriculture, and without settled habita-
tions. Like other nomadic tribes, they wandered from country
to country, as the wants of their families and flocks required,
removing their wives and children in a kind of wagons covered
with the skins of animals, which, when they settled, formed
their simple habitations.
12. This formidable people had invaded Media, and threat-
ened to overspread all Asia. Cyaxares hasted to the relief of
his subjects, but was vanquished by the barbarians. For twenty-
eight years they spread desolation through all Upper Asia. At
length the Medes invited the principal Scythians to a feast,
where they were made intoxicated, and in this condition many
were massacred. The remainder fleeing to the sovereign of
Lydia, (a kingdon now rising to consequence,) he afforded them
protection. This embroiled Cyaxares in a war with the Lydi-
ans, which, after five years of nearly equal success on both
sides, was terminated by peace.
13. Cyaxares no sooner found himself established in his king-
dom, than his thoughts reverted to his favorite enterprise, the
destruction of Nineveh. He entered into an alliance with Na-
bopolassar, who had revolted from the .king of Assyria, and es-
tablished himself as an independent king in Babylon. Their
united armies laid siege to Nineveh, and effected its entire de-
struction. Saracus, the reigning king, was killed, and Cyax-
ares soon made himself master of all the other cities of the
kingdom.
lO. Who was Dejoces? Phraortes? Cyaxares? — 11. Give an ac-
count of the Scythians. — 12. Give an account of the Scythian invasion.
Of the means taken to expel them. How was a war with Lydia brought
about ? How long did it continue ? — 13. Give an account of the destruction
of Nineveh.
CHAPTER II.
Greece.
1. The Spartans, under the laws of Lycurgus, had increased
in power, and become the terror of the surrounding states. The
Argives, (people of Argos ;) the Arcadians, and especially the
Messenians, suffered from their ambition. The first war with
Messenia continued twenty years, during which the Spartans
entirely subdued that people. For forty years they retained
them in bondage.
2. At length, Aristomenes arose and attempted the rescue
of his country. After having fought three years, with great
bravery, and defeated the Spartans in several engagements, Aris-
tomenes wTas forced to throw himself into Eira, a strong fortress
near the sea. Here he had maintained himself during a siege
of eleven years, when the Lacedaemonian commander, discover-
ing, on a stormy night, a post which had been deserted by its
guard, occupied it with his troops. Aristomenes struggled two
days and three nights to regain it. Finding himself foiled, and
the people suffering with hunger, he formed a column, in the
centre of which he put the women and children, and resolutely
demanded a passage out of the place. His enemies saw that he
was rendered desperate, and suffered him to retreat to Arcadia.
A part of the Messenians were made Helots or slaves, a part
received the protection of their allies the Arcadians, and many
migrated to Italy and Sicily, and there founded Rhegium and
Messina. Sparta was now the chief state of Greece.
3. Athens was gradually assuming a republican form of go-
vernment. After a succession of twelve hereditary archons, the
term of office was limited to ten years, the archons still to be
chosen from the family of Codrus. Nine archons were subse-
quently chosen in place of one, and the term of office limited
to one year. These nine were at first elected by the voluntary
suffrages of the people, afterwards by lot from among the no-
bles. Faction and discord prevailing, a reform was needed, and
a code of laws, termed the bloody code, was made by Draco.
By this, the smallest offence, and the most heinous crime, were
alike punished with death or banishment.
4. Thirty years after Draco, when the Athenians, by the
rigor and injustice of his laws, were plunged into confusion and
misery, the wise Solon was appointed archon, with the power
of reforming the state. His first attempt was to settle the quar-
rels between the rich and the poor. In order to remove the
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. II.
T43.
685.
Second Mes-
senian war.
Aristomenes
the patriot
chief.
Italian and
Sicilian
colonies.
621.
Draco forms
a code of
laws.
624.
Laws of
Solon, one
of "the
seven wise
men of
Greece."
Chap. IT. — 1. What was the condition and conduct of the Spartans ? How
long was their first war with the people of Messenia ? How did it termi-
nate?—2. Give an account of the second Messenian war.— 3. What
changes occurred in the government of Athens? What were the laws of
Draco called? Why? — 4:. What was the effect of " the bloody code ?"
63
64
PISiSTRATUS TYRANT OF ATHENS.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. II.
Solon di-
vides the
people into
594.
Power of
the Areopa-
gus in-
creased.
56©.
Pisistratus
disregards
the laws of
Solon.
He collects
the first pub-
lic library at
Athens.
evils which arose from the debts of the poor, and the power of
their creditors, he lowered the interest of money, raised its no-
minal value, and deprived creditors of power over the persons
of debtors, or those of their families. He extended the right of
property beyond the death of the owners, allowing them to dis-
pose of their estates by will. He divided the people into four
classes according to their wealth. Only the first three classes,
composed of the rich, could hold public offices ; but the fourth
had an equal vote in the assembly of the people.
5. The nine archons were continued as chief magistrates, but
associated with them was a council or senate; and nothing
could be brought before the people which had not been first dis-
cussed in this body. The members of the senate were chosen
annually by lot, from the first three classes of citizens, and con-
sisted of four hundred persons. The assembly of the people
comprised the four classes of citizens, and possessed the power
of deciding upon war or peace, of choosing the magistrates, and
of deliberating upon the subjects proposed by the senate. So-
lon restored and augmented the power of the Areopagus,* mak-
ing it the supreme court of judicature. It was composed of
those who had held the office of archon with honor and dignity,
and its members retained their place for life. The reputation
of this court for justice and integrity was so great, that it is said
even the Romans, who were now rising to power, referred
causes to its decision.
6. But these wise regulations did not long restrain the rest-
less spirit of the Athenians. Pisistratus, a descendant of the
ancient kings, and a relation of Solon, by his insinuating man-
ners, and great pretences to zeal for the people, made himself
the most popular man in Athens. Appearing one day in the
market-place, bloody and covered with wounds, he declared he
had received them from his enemies, by whom he had been
waylaid. The people believed that his life had been thus ex-
posed for the public good, and a guard of fifty soldiers was
granted him. Soon after this, he augmented the number, seized
the Acropolis, and exiled all who would not submit. Thus
he made himself tyrantf of Athens. He was twice expelled, but
finding means to reinstate himself, he reigned seventeen years
in peace. He governed in a mild and equitable manner, not at-
tempting any farther alterations in the constitution of Solon.
He established a public library, and made the Athenians ac-
* Plutarch attributes the origin of this high tribunal to Solon; but from
other authorities it would appear that it existed, though with inferior powers,
in the time of Draco.
t The Greeks employed the word tyrant, in a sense different from its
modern acceptation. With them, it denoted a person who had obtained the
sovereignty in a republic, but it had no reference to the abuse of power.
4:. Give an account of Solon. Of his edict to help the poor ? Of that
in reference to wills ? Respecting the divisions of the people ?— 5. What did
Solon direct in regard to the archons ? What with respect to a senate ? What
respecting an assembly of the people ? What concerning the Areopagus ? — &
Who subverted the laws of Solon ? Give an account of him.
RISE OF THE PERSIAN POWER. 65
quainted with the poems of Homer, which he collected, and or- Ancient His
dered to be read at the public feasts. period v.
7. Pisistratus was succeeded by his sons, Hippias and Hip- °hap. hi.
parchus. Their united reign, at first popular, was, after a few s^^v**-'
years, terminated by the assassination of Hipparchus, at a reli-
gious festival. From this time, the government of Hippias ex-
hibits a jealous and cruel policy. The Alcmseonidae, a power- 521.
ful family, who had been banished from Athens, united with H^parchu^
Cleomenes, the reigning king of Sparta. They advanced with
a large army, and joined by other exiles who had suffered
from the cruelty of Hippias, laid siege to Athens. Hippias and
his family fled from Attica and went to Sardis, then under the
government of Darius, king of Persia, who espoused his cause.
8. Clisthenes, one of the Alcmeeonidse, succeeded to power.
He undermined the constitution of Solon, by introducing certain 51©.
alterations pleasing to the populace. He increased the number ^l^"^9
of tribes from four to ten, and enacted that fifty should be council of
chosen from each tribe to constitute the senate, from this time, fivdered ""
called the council of Jive hundred.
CHAPTER III.
Persia.— The empire of Cyrus.
Section I.
1. Persia, until the time of Cyrus, consisted of twelve tribes,
who inhabited only one province of the vast territory which
has since borne this name. Of these tribes, the Pasargadae, to
which Cambyses, the father of Cyrus, belonged, was the most
noble. The power of Asia was at this time divided between
Babylon, Media, and Lydia. Crcesus, the king of Lydia, was 56©.
renowned for his wealth. With the exception of Lycia and Extentof'his
Cilicia, his dominions extended over all Asia west of the Halys. kingdom.
Babylon, under the successors of Nebuchadnezzar, had been
declining in power.
2. Cyrus was the son of Cambyses, a Persian noble, and
Mandane, the daughter of Astyages, king of Media. The Per-
sian tribes united in him, as their chief or king, and he effected 559-
the union of the Persian and Median kingdoms. The victories c^[^ ^Hl
of Cyrus over the Armenians, aroused the jealousy of the neigh- Persia,
boring sovereigns. A coalition was formed between the kings
T. Give an account of his successors. — 8. Who next rose to power, and
how did he alter the laws of Solon ?
Chap. III. — 1. Between what three kingdoms was the power of Asia
divided ? What can you say of Crcesus and his dominions ? What of Ba-
bylon ? — 2. Give aii account of Cyrus ?
9
66
GREAT PERSIAN EMPIRE UNDER CYRUS.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP III.
548.
THYMBRA
Cyrus
victorious
over the
allies.
Belshaz-
zar's feast.
Daniel
prophesies.
538.
Belshazzar
slain.
The temple
at Jerusa-
lem rebuilt.
5*19.
Cyrus
killed in
Scythia.
Cambyses
succeeds
him.
of Babylon, Egypt, and Lydia, and a battle fought between the
Persians and the allied forces at Thymbra, a city of Lydia, in
which the fortune of Cyrus prevailed. He soon made himself
master of Sardis, the capital of Lydia, seized upon the vast
riches of Crcesus, took him prisoner, and put a period to his
kingdom, obliging his people to adopt the Persian costume and
manners. In his distress the fallen monarch called out " Solon!
Solon !" In his prosperity he had received a visit from that
philosopher, who would not call him happy, because he
lived ; and no man living could tell what dangers he might yet
experience.
3. Having reduced all Asia Minor, Cyrus carried the war into
the Babylonian empire, and in a pitched battle, defeated Bel-
shazzar, who retreated to his capital. The conqueror then
sat down before the city. Knowing what passed within, he
ordered his men, on a certain evening, to open the great recep-
tacles, prepared by former sovereigns to draw off the water of
the river in seasons of inundation. Thus the channel of the
Euphrates was drained. Belshazzar, secure in the strength
of his city, had that night made a great feast for his nobles, and
in the disorder of the festival, the gates of brass, which had
closed the descent to the river, had been left open. The troops
of Cyrus, passing into its bed, were soon in the heart of the
city. In the meantime, the effeminate monarch had been awaken-
ed from his dream of pleasure and security, by a mysterious
appearance. A hand had written on the wall in characters of
divine vengeance — " Mene tekel." Daniel, severe in youthful
sanctity, fearlessly read to him their prophetic import, " Thou
art weighed in the balance, and found wanting." At this dread
moment, the troops of Cyrus were at hand, to verify the words
of the prophet. Almost without resistance, they took the city,
and slew the sentenced Belshazzar.
4. Cyrus 'permitted the, Jews, who were still in captivity in
Babylon, to return to Jerusalem., and not only assisted them in
rebuilding their temple, which had been destroyed by Nebuchad-
nezzar, but restored its sacred vessels. The dominions of Cy-
rus extended from the river Indus to the JEgean Sea, and from
the Caspian and Euxine Seas, to Ethiopia and the Sea of Arabia.
He was a great and virtuous king, and his name was long held
in reverence among the nations of the east. He was killed in
an expedition against the Scythians.
5. Cambyses, his son, succeeded him. This cruel prince ex-
tended his dominions by the conquest of Egypt, whose king he
put to death. From a jealousy of his brother Smerdis, he or-
dered his assassination. During the absence of Cambyses, a
2. On what occasion was the battle of Thymbra fought? What fol-
lowed? What reminded Crcesus of Solon? — 3. Where did Cyrus next
carry the war ? Relate the manner in which the Persians entered Babylon.
Relate what happened to Belshazzar. — 4. What favours did the Jews re-
ceive from Cyrus ? What was the extent of the empire of Cyrus ? What
was his character ? How did he lose his life ? — 5. What was the name and
character of his successor ?
THE PERSIANS INVADE THE SCYTHIANS.
67
Magian, calling himself Smerdis, pretended to have escaped the
intended assassination, and seized upon the throne of Persia.
The imposition was at length discovered, and the impostor de-
throned and killed.
6. The royal family becoming extinct by the death of Cam-
•byses, Darius Hystaspes, a Persian nobleman, was raised to
the throne. He recovered Babylon, which had revolted, and
then collected a formidable army for the invasion of Scythia,
taking as allies some of the Asiatic Greeks. He passed into
Europe, and crossed the Danube on a bridge of boats. This
he left in charge of his Greek allies, with permission, if he did
not come back in three months, to destroy the bridge, and return
to their country. The Scythians, on learning that Darius had
crossed the Danube, sent away their wives and children with
their flocks, to the northern part of their country. They then
laid waste the region through which the Persians must pass ;
consuming the forage, and destroying the wells and springs.
Having done this, they marched towards their enemy, not with
the view of giving him battle, but of drawing him into an am-
buscade. Darius advanced ; at length a herald from the Scythian
prince appeared, bringing to him a present of a bird, a mouse, a
frog, and five arrows. One of his officers expounded the enig-
ma, which the messenger refused to do. " Know," said he,
" that unless you can fly in the air like birds, or hide yourself
in the earth like mice, or swim the water like frogs, you shall
in no wise be able to escape the arrows of the Scythians."
7. The Persian army, amid the barren steppes of the north,
and annoyed by the wily enemy, becoming disheartened, their
monarch was compelled to relinquish his imprudent enterprise,
and retrace his steps towards the Danube. The Persians, hav-
ing as usual lighted fires in their camp, the Scythians did not
discover their retreat till morning, when they despatched envoys
to persuade the Greeks to destroy the bridge, they had been left
to guard. Being acquainted with all the passes, they arrived
before Darius. A consultation of the Grecian chiefs was held,
many of whom, believing that the destruction of Darius would
procure the future independence of their own states, were in
favor of destroying the bridge. Other counsels prevailed;
but this treachery was made known to Darius, and was one
cause of his subsequent hostility to the Greeks. He recrossed
the Danube in safety, and leaving Megabysus, one of his gene-
rals, with part of his army, he retired with the rest of his troops
to Sardis. Macedonia and Thrace were conquered by Mega-
bysus, and added to the Persian dominions.
8. The Ionians of Asia, who had for some time been subject
to the Persians, headed by Aristagoras, tyrant of Miletus, re-
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. III.
496.
Darius
invades
Scythia.
Present of
the Scy-
thians to
Darius.
Darius re-
turns, but
leaves an
army
496.
Persians
conquer
Thrace and
Macedonia.-
5. What were some of his acts V — 6. Who succeeded him ? What were his
first measures? What did the Scythians when their country was invaded ?
How was their present explained ? — T. Relate the circumstances of Darius'
retreat. What cause of hostility to the Greeks did he find? What general
did he leave in Europe ? What countries did he conquer ?
68
PERSIANS AT WAR WITH THE ASIATIC GREEKS.
Jlncient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. III.
Asiatic
Greeks re-
volt.
494.
Greeks burn
Sardis.
Are
defeated.
Miletus be-
sieged.
Naval vic-
tory of the
Persians,
and
Destruction
of
MILETUS.
Mardonius
invades
Greece. His
fleet wreck-
ed at Mount
Athos.
volted from Darius, and despatched ambassadors to the several
states of Greece, to implore their aid. Cleomenes, king of
Sparta, refused to engage in the war ; but the Athenians, offended
with Darius for having taken part with Hippias, their banished
king, now willingly entered into an alliance with the Ionians.
To render the revolt against the Persians more formidable, by
engaging the people heartily in their cause, Aristagoras -travelled
through all Ionia, prevailing upon the tyrants to restore freedom
to the cities, of which he himself set an example by liberating
Miletus.
9. In the third year of the war, the Ionians collected a fleet,
and sailed for Ephesus. Leaving their ships at that place, they
marched to Sardis, which they took, and having driven Arta-
ph ernes, the cruel Persian governor, into the citadel, they set
fire to the city. They then marched towards Ephesus, but the
Persian and Lydian armies overtook and defeated them with
great slaughter. The Athenians escaped to their ships, and re-
fused to engage any further in the war.
10. Miletus being the centre, and most important city of the
Ionian confederacy, Artaphernes concentrated his forces, and
besieged the place. The Ionians, with a fleet of three hundred
and fifty-three vessels, determined to engage the Persians at sea ;
who with a naval force far superior to theirs, were lying near the
besieged city. So skilful were the Greeks in maritime affairs,
that the Persian commander dared not hazard an engagement
until he had first sought to corrupt the different squadrons of
which the Ionian fleet was composed. He promised indemnity
to those countries whose vessels should forsake the Ionian
cause, and threatened utter destruction to the places, whose
fleets should adhere to it. All, but the Samians, stood firm in
their devotion to the common cause. Their admiral, in the
commencement of the battle, gave the signal for flight, and of
their sixty ships, forty-nine deserted. The Samian people dis-
approved his treachery, and ordered the names of the eleven
captains who disobeyed his commands, to be honorably re-
corded on a pillar erected by the commonwealth. Though the
Ionians and most of the allies fought with bravery, the battle
was lost. Miletus was soon after taken by assault; its inhabit-
ants put to the sword, and its dwellings and temples burned.
Devastation was spread through the towns and country, to the
shores of the Hellespont.
11. Artaphernes was recalled, and succeeded by Mardonius,
a young nobleman, who had married a daughter of Darius. He
was directed, with a large army and a powerful fleet, to carry
the war into Greece. His land army crossed the Hellespont,
8. Who revolted from the Persians ? From whom did they seek for aid,
and with what success ? What measures were taken by Aristagoras ? — 9.
Relate the naval operations of the war. What city did the Greeks burn ?
What followed ? How did the Athenians bear this reverse ? — lO. What is
said of Miletus ? By whom was ii besieged ? Relate the naval battle. Its
result.— >1 1 . Who succeeded Artaphernes ?
THE FIRST PERSIAN INVASION OF GREECE.
69
and marched into Macedonia and Thrace. His fleet, in indent ms.
doubling Mount Mios, was exposed to a violent storm, in which period v
three hundred ships, and twenty thousand men were lost. The chap. iv.
season was advanced, and the Persians for the time relinquished ^^^v-^^
the enterprise, and returned to Asia.
CHAPTER IV.
Greece.' — The Persian War.
1. Greece was at this time composed of a number of small
and independent states, connected with each other by no bond
of interest or obligation, but often engaged in feuds and hostili-
ties. Sparta and Athens, having obtained a pre-eminence over
the other states, were ever jealous of each other. The Persian
invasion for once united them, a national spirit awoke, and laid
the foundation of future greatness. The year following the in-
vasion of Mardonius, Darius sent heralds into Greece, demand-
ing of all the cities earth and water, the usual form in which
the Persians exacted submission. Thebes, iEgina, and many
of the cities and islands submitted \ but Athens and Sparta re-
sented the demand, and in the one place the heralds were thrown
into a cave, in the other into a well, and bade to procure there
the earth and water which they wanted.
2. Darius, in the meantime, had made vigorous preparations
for the war. Datis, with Artaphernes, son of the former go-
vernor of Lydia, was appointed to succeed Mardonius. They
departed from Asia Minor with a fleet of 500 ships, and an army
of 100,000 men. Having taken the islands of the iEgean Sea,
they proceeded to Etruria, a city of Euboea, which had greatly
incensed Darius by its participation in the Ionian war. Having
reduced the city to ashes, and sent the inhabitants in chains to
Persia, the Persians, under the guidance of Hippias, the banished
king of Athens, advanced towards Attica, and landed on the
narrow plain of Marathon.
3. The Spartans, from some superstitious fears, were unwil-
ling to join the little band of Athenians till after the full moon.
In Miltiades, the Athenians possessed a commander capable of
directing the energies of the republic, and infusing into the
breasts of the people the ardor of his own self-devoting spirit.
He had formerly been tyrant of the Chersonesus, and having
II. Relate the circumstances of his invasion ? .
Chap. IV. — 1. Of what was Greece composed ? Which states were at
the head of Greece ? In what manner did the Persians demand submission ?
How did the several states answer them ?— 2. Relate the military arrange-
ments of Darius. The number of his ships ? His troops ? Their progress
until they arrive at Marathon ?— 3. What forces on the part of the Greeks
opposed this formidable army ?
491.
Darius ex-
acts sub-
mission of
Greece.
Datis and
Arta-
phernes.
Persians
land in
Attica.
The
Spartans
are tardy.
TO
MARATHON.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IV.
Greeks
10,000.
Persians
100,000.
490.
MARA-
THON.
Persian
loss, 12,000.
Greek loss,
only 200.
A soldier
runs from
Marathon to
Athens.
48S.
Miltiades
dies in
prison.
481-
Xerxes pre-
pares to
invade
Greece.
480
He
Invades
Greece.
accompanied Darius in his Scythian expedition, was acquainted
with the Persian mode of warfare. This intrepid man did not
even await the approach of the Persians, but marched onward
to Marathon with only his little army of 10,000 heroes, and
prepared with alacrity for the encounter of the Persian host,
which was ten times his own in number.
4. The strength of the Persian army consisted much in its
cavalry, and the prudent Miltiades had drawn up his forces on a
narrow plain, where calvary had no opportunity for action.
Datis, the Persian commander, was aware of his disadvantage-
ous position, but trusting to the superiority of his forces, con-
cluded to hazard an engagement. On the signal for battle, the
Athenians advanced running, at once engaging the enemy in
close fight. The whole Persian army retreated in disorder to
their ships. The Athenians pursued, slaughtered 12,000, set
many of the ships on fire and took seven. An Athenian sol-
dier, finding the victory secure, left the field of battle covered
with blood, and such was his exhaustion on reaching the city,
that he could only exclaim, " Rejoice, rejoice, the victory is
ours," when he fell dead at the feet of the magistrate.
5. Miltiades now obtained of the Athenians a fleet of seventy
ships, with the design of punishing those islands which had fa-
vored the Persians. He laid siege to Paros, but having received
a dangerous wound in attempting to enter the town, he raised
the siege and returned to Athens. On the accusation of one of
the citizens, this benefactor of Greece was tried for treachery in
raising the siege. He was fined fifty talents, and, being unable
to pay this sum, was thrown into prison, where he died of the
wounds which he received in the service of his ungrateful
country.
6. Darius was occupied for three years in preparing a more
powerful armament, intending to lead the expedition in person;
but dying, Xerxes, his eldest son, succeeded him. Xerxes
subdued the Egyptians, who had revolted, and then continued
the vast preparations made for the invasion of Greece. After
four years, in which he had gathered an army from every part
of his extensive empire, he commenced his march towards the
Hellespont. He passed the winter at Sardis, from whence he
sent heralds to all the Grecian states, except Athens and Lace-
daemon, demanding earth and water. The Thessalians and
some others submitted.
7. In the spring, Xerxes, at the head of an army, said to have
been greater than was ever collected either before or since his
time, advanced towards Greece. A bridge of boats had been
made at a monstrous expense, for the passage of the host across
the Hellespont. The width of the strait and the rapidity of the cur-
rent were not sufficiently considered, and the undertaking proved
3. What account can you give of Miltiades ?— *. Describe the great battle
of Marathon. — 5. How was Miltiades treated ?— S. What was done by
Darius ? What were the first measures of his successor? What was done
by Xerxes in relation to the invasion of Greece ?
THE GREAT ARMY OP XERXES.
71
as useless as it was difficult and dangerous. The bridge was
destroyed by a violent storm, and Xerxes, in a fit of passion,
ordered the workmen to be put to death, and the rebellious sea
to be scourged with three hundred lashes, and chains to be
thrown into it. A second attempt succeeded ; a bridge was
completed, and the army occupied seven days and seven nights
in the passage. Having crossed the Thracian Chersonesus, and
arrived at Dor, Xerxes reviewed his army. His infantry
amounted to 1,700,000, and his cavalry to 80,000. His fleet,
when he left Asia, consisted of 1207 vessels, of three banks of
oars, each carrying 300 fighting men. The European nations
had added to his fleet 20 vessels, each carrying 200 men ; be-
sides which, there were small galleys, transport ships, and ves-
sels carrying provisions, amounting in all to 3000.
8. Great was the terror of the Greeks. Athens and Lacedae-
mon sent ambassadors to Gelon, the principal tyrant of Syra-
cuse,— to Argos, and to the Jsles of Corcyra and Crete. From
each an unfavorable answer was returned. The Athenians next
consulted the oracle of Delphi. The answer was, that when all
else was destroyed, their wooden walls might preserve them.
This, Themistocles, who now took the lead in Athens, inter-
preted to signify their ships. After the battle of Marathon, that
profound politician, foreseeing the probable re-invasion of his
country, had sought to increase the maritime power of Athens.
At his suggestion, the revenues of some silver mines, which had
usually been distributed among the people, were applied to the
building of a hundred galleys. On the first alarm they had
doubled their number of ships, and they now appointed The-
mistocles to the command. Eurybiades, a Spartan, was com-
mander-in-chief of the whole naval force of the allies.
9. In the present danger, Athens and iEgina had become re-
conciled, and all internal divisions were healed. Themistocles
joined in soliciting the return of Aristides, whose banishment
he had been active in procuring. Aristides had, in the war with
Darius, been of great service to the state, and by the spotless
integrity of his character had acquired the surname of the Just.
While the question of his banishment was pending, he heard a
citizen, who did not know his person, speak of voting against
him. " Why ?" said the good man, "what evil has Aristides
done to you ?" " I am tired," said the citizen, " of hearing him
called the Just." He then went into voluntary banishment, but
returned at the invitation of his country.
10. The Persian king marched at his ease, through Thrace,
Macedonia and Thessaly. The cities through which he passed
prepared for him splendid entertainments; and Xerxes believed
he had but to march over the necks of a prostrate people.
Ancient His.
480.
Xerxes
reviews his
army.
Themis-
tocles the
author of
the naval
power of
Athens.
484.
Aristides
banished
by the
Ostracism
(So called)
from the
Greek word
signifying
oyster, be-
cause the
people wrote
the name of
the person
whom they
wished to
banish on
shells.
The man
whose name
was written
on the great-
est number
of shells was
banished.)
7. Relate Xerxes' passage of the Hellespont. The size of his army?
Of his fleet ? — 8. What measures were taken by the Grecians ? How did
Themistocles persuade the Athenians to increase their navy ? Who were
the naval commanders ? — 9, What account can you give of Aristides ?
72
LEONIDAS.
Jlncient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IV.
48©.
Persians
repulsed at
THERMO-
PYLJE.
Death of
Leonidas
and 20,000
Persians.
48©
The Persian
fleet.
Leonidas, the king of Sparta, met him at the pass of Thermo-
pylae,* with only five thousand regular troops. Xerxes, hearing
that the Spartans had taken possession of this narrow pass, sent
to them that it was the Athenians only, with whom he was at
war, and he desired that they would lay down their arms.
" Tell him to come and take them," said Leonidas. The Per-
sians attacked, and were repulsed with great slaughter by the
Grecian phalanx.| During three days the Persians made re-
peated attempts, but the Spartans kept the pass. At length a
treacherous Greek showed them a secret path, which led to the
top of a mountain overlooking and commanding the Spartan
position. Leonidas now determined to sacrifice himself and his
Spartans, believing that their devotion would show the Per-
sians with whom they had to contend ; and his example enkin-
dle the enthusiasm of his countrymen. Besides, the oracle had
declared that either Sparta or her king must perish. Reserving
his three hundred Lacedaemonians, who were emulous of shar-
ing his fate, he dismissed the others. Without a hope either
of conquest or escape, this little band advanced to the onset,
determined that their lives should cost their enemies dear.
Leonidas was one of the first who fell. His soldiers, roused to
fury, rallied around his body, and fought till 20,000 Persians
were slain. Only one of the three hundred remained to carry
the news. Sparta despised him, while she rejoiced over her
patriot sons, who so nobly died in her defence.
11. The fleet of Xerxes had encountered a terrible storm,
which had destroyed hundreds of his vessels. It had followed
the movements of the land forces, and lay near them, on the
northern coast of Euboea, and was still superior to the Grecian in
strength. Several engagements took place between them, which,
though not decisive, were favorable to the Athenians, and served
to animate their spirits. News of the battle of Thermopylae,
induced the Grecian fleet to withdraw from the neighborhood
of the Persian, which now took possession of Euboea. Xerxes,
advanced through Phocis, burnt its cities, and laid waste the
country.
12. The Peloponnesians, forgetful of the claims of their al-
lies, set about fortifying their peninsula by a strong wall ex-
tending across the isthmus from the gulf of Corinth to the gulf
of Athens. When the Athenians found themselves deserted,
* This was a narrow pass between Mount CEta and the sea, leading from
Thessaly into Phocis. It derived its name from two Greek words, thermce,
warm springs, of which there were several near, and pylce, gates.
Through this narrow way, not wide enough for two chariots to pass each
other, the Persian land forces were obliged to march on their way to Attica.
t A square battalion, or body of soldiers, with their shields joined and
pikes crossing each other ; and so closely arranged in rank and file, as to
render it exceedingly difficult to break it. It sometimes consisted of 8,000
or 10,000 men, but frequently of a smaller number.
lO. Relate the conduct and fate of Leonidas. Where was Thermopyhe ?
— 11. Relate the naval operations. The progress of the Persian fleet
and land army. — 12. What circumstances preceded the destruction of
Athens ?
THE FLIGHT OF XERXES.
73
they abandoned their city. Almost all the male citizens went
on board the ships, piously trusting, through faith in the oracle,
to their u wooden walls." The protection of the city was so-
lemnly committed to Minerva, and the women and children
were sent to Salamis and iEgina. Xerxes advanced and took
Athens ; he burnt the citadel, and slaughtered the few remaining
citizens who had valiantly defended it. The finest paintings
and statuary he sent to adorn Susa, now the capital of his own
dominions.
13. Eurybiades, with most of the confederates, desired to re-
treat with the Grecian navy, near to the isthmus of Corinth,
where the Grecian land forces Avere stationed. But Themisto-
cles urged the necessity of maintaining the advantageous posi-
tion which they occupied in the narrow strait of Salamis. At
the same time, to oblige the Greeks to fight, he used a strata-
gem, which brought the Persians to threaten them at both ends
of the strait. Aristides, who was at JEgina, on learning the
movements of the Persians, procured a passage to Salamis. On
his arrival, the officers were discussing the expediency of a
retreat, but he informed them that the entrances of the strait
were already in the hands of the Persians.
14. Nothing was left to the Greeks but united resistance.
The Persian fleet was far superior in numbers to theirs. The
land army, with Xerxes at its head, was drawn up on the Attic
shore. The vain monarch, confident that he should but witness
an easy conquest, was struck with astonishment and dismay
when he found the valor of the Greeks prevailing, and at length
beheld the destruction and flight of his mighty armament.
Alarmed for his personal safety, he was seized with an eager
desire to escape from a country, where victory itself had been to
him scarcely more than another name for defeat. Fearing, from
secret advices, that his bridge across the Hellespont might be
destroyed, he hastened to depart, leaving 300,000 of his best
forces under Mardonius, by which he still hoped to subjugate
the country.
15. The Greeks pursued, as Xerxes fled before them, for
forty-five days, during which, his army suffered great distress
from famine. At length disease appearing among them, he left
them behind, and with only a few attendants hurried forward.
Finding his bridge across the Hellespont destroyed, he did not
delay in order to chastise the sea a second time, but crossed it
in a small fishing boat. The remains of the Persian fleet were
stationed at Samos, to prevent the revolt of some of the pro-
vinces of Asia Minor. Mardonius with his troops retired for
winter quarters into Thessaly.
16. The Carthaginians, who, followed the steps of the Phoe-
nicians, from whom they sprang, had made themselves a wealthy
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IV.
The Greek
fleet suc-
cessful b}'
means of
Themisto-
cles.
480.
SALAMIS.
Defeat and
flight of
Xerxes.
Mardonius
remains.
Xerxes
humbled,
recross€s
the Helles-
pont.
12. What attended it ? — 13. What circumstances led to the battle of
Salamis? — 14-. What was the position and conduct of Xerxes? — 15. Re-
late his flight into Asia. What army did he leave ?
10
74
THE PERSIANS TWICE DEFEATED.
Jlncient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IV.
4T9.
Mardonius
burns
Athens.
Battle of
PL ATM A.
Mardonius
slain.
Of
MYCALE.
Persian loss
40,000.
and powerful maritime nation. They believed that the Greek
colony in Sicily might, at this time, be made an easy prey, as
they could hope for no assistance from the mother country.
They therefore sent out a fleet which landed an army on
the island. Gelon, the powerful tyrant of Syracuse, command-
ing in person, defeated the Carthaginian land forces ; while his
brother Hiero, who commanded the Sicilian fleet, obtained a
victory at sea, on the same day, as is generally believed, that
the Greeks defeated the Persians at Salamis.
17. The following spring, Mardonius sent an embassy to
persuade the Athenians to separate themselves from the Grecian
confederacy. The Spartans, now fearing the effect of that selfish
policy which had left the Athenians to struggle alone, des-
patched messengers to assure them of their determination to send
them immediate succors, and beseech them not to sacrifice
Grecian freedom to the security of their own city. To the
emissaries of Mardonius, Aristides, who was now at the head
of affairs, returned a respectful but decided negative ; and of the
Spartans he requested to send their promised forces into Boeo-
tia, to prevent the retaking of Athens. Mardonius, on learning
the result of his negotiation, advanced into Attica, laying waste
the whole country. The Athenians receiving no succors from
their allies, again abandoned their city, and they now retired to
Salamis. Mardonius consigned Athens to destruction, burn-
ing and demolishing whatever had been spared the preceding
year.
18. Mardonius retired into Bceotia, near the city of Thebes,
whose inhabitants were in the Persian interest, and where
larger plains would enable him to employ his cavalry with
greater advantage. The Grecian forces, amounting to 70,000
men, under the command of Pausanias, king of Sparta, and
Aristides, the Athenian general, pursued him. Here occurred
the memorable battle of Plataea, where the Greeks obtained a
splendid victory. The remains of the Persian fleet were at the
promontory of Mycale ; the ships were drawn ashore, surrounded
by a rampart, and guarded by 60,000 men. On the same day
of the victory at Platsea, the Greeks, commanded by Xantippus,
attacked and defeated them, carried the rampart, and burned the
Persian fleet. These two successes delivered Greece for ever
from the most formidable invasion of which history makes
mention.
19. Thrace was about this time subjugated by the confede-
rated Greeks, under Pausanias and Cimon; and Byzantium,* the
capital, with its rich treasures, fell into their hands. Although
the Persians had been forced from Europe, yet the confederated
* Byzantium, afterwards Constantinople, was founded B. C. 658, by a
colony from Argos.
16. What attack was made on Sicily? How was it repelled? — IT. Re-
late the circumstances of the second capture of Athens. — 18. Give an ac-
count of the battle of Plataea. Of Mycale.
GREECE, HEAD OF THE NATIONS. 75
Grecian powers now followed them into Asia, with intent to •*««««* His.
set the Asiatic Greeks free from their dominion. Xerxes had period v.
been succeeded by his son Artaxerxes, who had collected a chap. v.
large naval force at the mouth of the river Eurymedon, and a '
land force on its banks. A Greek expedition, under Cimon, at-
tacked and defeated the fleet. Then Cimon, decking himself
and some of his followers in rich Persian dresses, and going
aboard Persian galleys, sailed up the river, and were gladly re-
ceived in the camp of their deceived enemy; who, thus taken by
surprise, were in their horror and amazement easily overcome.
The spoils of the camp were immense, and riches now flowed
in upon Greece.
CHAPTER V.
Greece.
1. The glory of the Greeks was now at its meridian splendor.
Having become the terror of surrounding nations by their suc-
cess in arms, they became not less their admiration for excel- J^eihTarts
lence in the arts, and in the pursuits of philosophy. But their and utera-
ancient mythology, although it furnished a splendid imagery to ture-
the poet, yet as it taught the worship of divinities, who accord-
ing to popular belief were murderers, thieves, and adulterers, it
therefore exercised an injurious effect upon the public morals.
Hence arose different sects or schools of philosophy, embody-
ing purer and better systems.
2. These schools were held at Athens, Of all the ancients, Teacherg
Socrates, in his doctrines of the unity and perfections of the of the
Deity, and the immortality of the soul, comes the nearest to philosophy.
Christianity. Some regard him as inspired. He affirmed his
belief that a spirit attended him. Plato, his scholar, taught 440.
the unity of the Godhead, the immortality of the soul, and Socrates-
man's moral obligation to conduct in a manner worthy of the
high dignity of his nature. Aristotle, the most distinguished p.^9®'
of the pupils of Plato, was the founder of the Peripatetic school, ^J theg l
whose doctrines concern the physical nature of men and things, Academy.
and deal much in the subtleties of logic. Zeno, the founder of
the Stoics, taught that virtue, not happiness, is the chief good, — 3 *»©. ^
the object and aim of man's existence. The Egyptian priests, the Lyceum.
although they led the people to worship many gods, yet secretly
19. Give an account of the battle of the Eurymedon.
Chap. V. — 1. What was the state of Greece at this period ? What was
the character and spirit of their mythology ?— 2. What was held at Athens ?
What account can you give of Socrates ? Of Plato ? Of Aristotle ? Of
Zeno ? What double-dealing was practised by the Egyptian priests ? Who
was their scholar ? What did he teach to his scholars ? How ? What
difference was there in the manner of the Athenian sages ?
76
THE AGE OF PERICLES.
Jlncient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. V.
560.
(Pythagoras
had such au-
thority that
his school
became a lit-
tle nation.
He enjoined
silence for
the first
five years ;
then he al-
lowed schol-
ars to ask
questions
if they
would say
"much in
little.")
444.
Pericles
without a
rival. His
good and
bad
qualities.
The great
sculptor
Phidias died
432-
(Apelles the
great pain-
ter, lived
about the
same time.)
444.
Roman
deputation.
Herodotus.
(Aristopha-
nes, a writer
of comedy
and satire,
lived about
this time.)
to their pupils, they taught that there was but one God. Pythago-
ras, who had received from them their doctrines, taught this to
his scholars at his famous school of Crotona, in Italy, but pri-
vately. The democratic philosophers of Athens taught public-
ly for the good of mankind at large, whom they respected, what
they themselves believed.
3. The elegant arts of poetry, painting, sculpture, and archi-
tecture, were also at this period carried to a perfection never
yet equalled in any other age or country. Much credit for pa-
tronizing the arts and sciences is due to Pericles, who now
obtained ascendency in Athens, and preserved his authority for
the forty years comprising the golden period of Athenian his-
tory.
4. Though born and nurtured in the aristocracy, yet he
artfully joined the democratic party to undermine the influence
of Aristides and Cimon. Aristides died, Cimon was ban-
ished, and Pericles ruled without a rival. Content with the
substance of power, he forbore to excite envy by its pomps and
titles. When he spoke, it was with force and eloquence. His ad-
ministration was just and equitable; but still he was more his
own, than his country's friend. He corrupted the people by
treasures, which he removed from Delphos to Athens. He
caused the city to be embellished by splendid buildings, and
superb statues, executed by Phidias.* The envy which he
shunned himself, he thus drew upon Athens, from the other
Grecian states, and in this manner paved the way for attacks
from without ; while by flattering the lowest of the people, he
weakened the force of the laws, undermined the internal con-
stitution of the state, and rendered it unable to make a vigorous
resistance.
5. Such was the reputation for wisdom, which Athens had at
this period acquired in distant countries, that a new nation,
rising in the west, sent deputies to obtain the laws of Solon.
This nation was Rome, destined to be the conqueror of Greece.
About this time, Herodotus, the "father of history," read his
work to a public assembly at Athens, and received flatter-
ing honors. Eschylus and Sophocles carried the Greek drama
to its perfection. Though Greece was thus esteemed by other
nations, j^et her states, wanting a well defined system of confe-
deracy, were no sooner delivered from foreign pressure, than
* His statue of Minerva was the pride of Athens ; but when he was ban-
ished he made for the people of Elis a still nobler monument of his art, the
statue of Jupiter Olympus, reckoned one of the wonders of the world. A
temple of Minerva, situated on the Acropolis, was said to have been the
most beautiful building ever erected. It was of pure white Pentelican mar-
ble. It was called Parthenon, because erected to a virgin goddess. Phidias
was the chief architect.
3. In what besides philosophy did the Greeks excel ? Who patronized
the arts and sciences ? — 4. Give an account of Pericles and his administra-
tion.— 5. What nation sent to Athens for laws? What historian appeared
at this time ? What tragic poets ? What effect had foreign wars upon
Greece ? Give some account of the works of Phidias. (See note.)
448.
The first Sa-
GREECE DIVIDED AGAINST ITSELF. 77
they exhibited a tendency to disunion among themselves, indent ms.
Athens and Sparta struggled for supremacy, and the other states period v.
for independence ; and petty wars soon succeeded the great Per- chap. vi.
sian conflict. v-**~v-"<w
6. The Jirst Sacred war, occurred about this time. It was
so called because it originated in a dispute arising from a claim
of the Delphians to the sole care of the temple of Apollo ; its "credwar
seat was at Delphos. Three years after this, in a war with the
Samians, the Athenians, under Pericles, prevailed and took the
island of Samos.
7. The Corcyrians, originally a colony from Corinth, but
who now surpassed the mother country, had hitherto declined 436.
joining any of the Grecian confederacies. Being at war with Corw«!an
Corinth, they asked aid of Athens. Ten galleys were furnished
them by the Athenians, but with orders to engage, only if the
Corinthians invaded the island of Corcyra. Hostile feelings
thus beginning between Athens and Corinth, were farther in-
creased by a dispute respecting Potidaea, a Corinthian colony in T^aSSm
Macedonia, which was a tributary ally of Athens : and a battle defeat the
was fought between their forces near that city, in which the
Athenians gained the advantage, and then laid siege to the place.
The Corinthians sent a deputation to Lacedaemon, accusing the
Athenians of having broken the articles of peace. They were
willingly listened to by the envious rival of Athens.
Corinthians.
CHAPTER VI.
The Peloponnesian War.
ponnesian
war.
Sparta
1. Thus rivalship for the sovereign power in Greece was 431.
impelling Athens and Sparta to a contest fatal to their common The Peio
country. Athens was the head of the Ionic race, Sparta of the
Doric. Athens was regarded as a democracy, and the advocate
of the people's rights ; Sparta as an aristocracy, and a defender
of the privileges of favored classes. In regard to their al- aristocratic
lies, Athens as mistress of the sea demanded and could collect democratic
tribute from her's, while Sparta made no such claim. For
this reason in the commencement of this contest between the
two ruling powers of Greece, the public voice was favorable to
Sparta. Even the Athenian allies, groaning under the burdens
imposed on them, secretly looked to Sparta for deliverance.
5. What was the position of the states of Greece with respect to each
other, when no longer pressed by foreign wars ? — 6. Give some account of
the first sacred war. — t. What was the cause of the Corinthian war?
Where was a battle fought ? What was the result ? To whom did the Co-
rinthians apply ? In what spirit was their petition received ?
Chap. VI. — 1. To what was the rivalship between the two first powers
of Greece impelling them ? How did the respective situations of Athena
and Sparta contrast ?
78
THE DECLINE OF ATHENS.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VI.
Spartan
confederate
army of
60,000 ra-
vage Attica.
The Athe-
nian fleet
desolate
the Pelo-
ponnesus.
430.
The plague
at Athens.8
Death of
Pericles.
429
Brasidas
takes
Amphipolis.
Thucydides
banished by
Ostracism.
Deaths of
Cleon and
Brasides.
Leading
men in
Athens.
2. Archidamus, king of Sparta, at the head of the Pelopon-
nesians, advanced into Attica. Pericles determined to prevent
a battle ; and to retaliate for the injuries of the enemy, by a
descent upon the Peloponnesian coast. The inhabitants of the
country were made to destroy their own houses and fields, to
remove their cattle to Eubcea, and to retire to the city. Not-
withstanding the distress of the multitudes thus collected, they
cheerfully bent their energies towards carrying on the war.
The Spartan king desolated the country. The popular voice
called loudly for battle ; but Pericles, though censured, remained
firm to his purpose. The Athenian fleet, meanwhile, landed on
the Peloponnesus, ravaged the western coast, and so distressed the
inhabitants, that the Spartan army was recalled home for its de-
fence. Thus each destroyed the other, while neither gained
any thing of value.
3. Athens suffered, the next year, a divine chastisement. A
plague of a most virulent character broke out in the city, and
multitudes of its crowded population became its victims. Such
was the extent of the distress, that the dying were unattended,
the dead unburied. Yet the living took it not to heart to amend
their ways, but broke out into the most disgraceful licentious-
ness. The city was crowded ; for the invasion of the Spartans
had again led Pericles to take the people of the country within
the walls, while again he sent the fleet to ravage the Peloponne-
sus. The same policy was followed in succeeding years. Peri-
cles lost all his family by the plague, and at length, bowed
down with sorrow? died himself.
4. The Athenians having been successful in several engage-
ments, and having at Pylos taken a number of Spartan prison-
ers, the Lacedaemonians made earnest overtures for peace, but
they were rejected. In the young Brasidas, Sparta found a
general who partially retrieved her affairs. He transferred the
seat of war to the coasts of Macedonia, and took Jlmjjhipolis,
the most valuable of the Athenian possessions in Thrace.
Thucydides, the historian, had command of the Athenian squa-
dron, now stationed at Thasos, which he brought up as soon as
he found Amphipolis was attacked. Though too late to pre-
vent its surrender, he saved other cities which were threatened.
For his failure, though innocent of any mismanagement, the
Athenians banished him for twenty years. Cleon was sent
with an army to check the Spartans. An engagement ensued
in which both he and Brasidas were killed. A truce was made
for fifty years, but it was not kept.
5. The chief power in Athens was now shared by Nicias, a
nobleman of integrity and patriotism, and Alcibiades, the
grandson of Pericles. The latter was born to wealth, possessed
2. Describe the Spartan operations in Attica ? The Athenian in the Pe-
loponnesus?— 3. Give an account of the. plague in Athens? — 4:. What did
the Spartans propose ? What distinguished men are mentioned in this pa-
ragraph i What became of them ? — 5. Give an account of Nicias? Who
was Alcibiades ?
AN UNPRINCIPLED GREAT MAN. 79
uncommon beauty, and great power over the minds of others ; indent His.
but he was unprincipled and profligate. Hoping to acquire period v.
glory by the conquest of Sicily, he had prevailed on the Athe- chap. vi.
nians, contrary to the wiser councils of Nicias, to send out a v-^>^»«-'
fleet against Syracuse, which had favored the Spartan cause.
The most powerful and splendid armament which had ever
sailed from Athens, was fitted out, and Alcibiades and Nicias
appointed chief commanders. The night previous to the de- Tjnfortunat
parture of the armament, some outrages having been committed Sicilian
upon the images of Mercury, which the Athenians discovered war'
after it had sailed, suspicion rested upon Alcibiades. Being sum-
moned home for trial, he left the fleet, fled to the Peloponne-
sus, and joined the Spartan cause.
6. Syracuse had sent to Sparta, imploring aid against Athens.
Alcibiades, determined to make Athens feel his resentment, had
pleased the Spartans by conforming to their plain dress and se-
vere manners, and he now artfully wrought upon their fears and
their pride; and persuaded them not only to send supplies into
Sicily, but to make a fresh incursion into Attica. The Athe- 414.
nians laid siege to Syracuse. A powerful Spartan force under ^featedat
Gylipfus arrived. Nicias wiote home for reinforcements, Syracuse.
which were sent out under Demosthenes, a relative of the.
celebrated orator. The two generals were unable to sustain
the siege. Battles were fought by sea and land, in which the
blood and treasure of Athens perished. In attempting a retreat,
both Nicias and Demosthenes were taken prisoners and barba-
rously slain.
7. The Athenians were in dismay at the news of these disas-
ters ; and the condition of the republic seemed desperate. Their
treasury was exhausted, their navy almost destroyed, and their The Per-
allies ready for revolt. Yet the spirit of the people sustained ^La^eds-
them, and energetic measures were speedily employed to re- monians
trieve their affairs. They might have succeeded, had they not m2»y#
found a new source of power to encounter, in the gold of Per-
sia, which had found its way into the hands of their enemies.
The satraps of Lydia and of the Hellespont, persuaded by Ly-
sander, an accomplished Spartan, furnished them with power-
ful supplies.
8. Meanwhile, Alcibiades finding himself suspected at Sparta,
had visited Sardis, and, ingratiating himself with Tissaphernes, Alcibiades
the satrap of Lydia, had rendered him favorable to Athens. At cPoiicySandS
the same time he offered his own services to his dejected coun- retrieves
try. He was recalled and appointed general. Under his guid- of Athens.
ance the Athenian fleet was repeatedly victorious ; Byzantium
was taken, and the Athenian supremacy in Ionia and Thrace
established.
9. About this time the Athenian fleet, during the absence of
Alcibiades, and contrary to his orders, engaged at Notium
5. What disastrous war did he promote? — 6. What treachery to his
country did he practise? Give an account of the Sicilian war? — 7 . What
was the condition of Athens ?— 8. What part did Alcibiades now act ?
so
SUPREMACY OF SPARTA.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VI.
405.
&GOS-
POTAMOS.
Spartans
defeat the
Athenian
fleet.
Athens
taken.
405.
End of the
Peloponne-
sian war.
4©4.
The thirty
tyrants.
Socrates.
401.
The thirty
tyrants
expelled.
Lysander, the Spartan admiral, and was defeated. This drew
upon Alcibiades the wrath of the inconstant populace. He was
dismissed from the command without trial, and again became an
exile. Having retired to a village in Phrygia, the Spartans in-
stigated the Athenians to destroy him. They sent soldiers,
who set fire to his house in the night. As he attempted to es-
cape, the soldiers fearing to approach, killed him with arrows.
One woman, alone, had sufficient regard for him to give his body
a decent burial.
10. After various turns of fortune, Lysander again obtained a
decisive naval victory. He entirely destroyed the Athenian
navy and reduced their allies to submission. He then blockaded
Athens with his fleet, while at the same time it was besieged by
land, with the whole strength of the Peloponnesian forces. Fa-
mine at length compelled the Athenians to surrender, and accept
such terms as their conquerors saw fit to impose. The walls
of Jlthens were destroyed; its ships, with the exception of twelve,
given up ; its exiles restored, and its government changed to an
oligarchy under thirty rulers. .
11. Sparta now ruled Greece, yet the constitution and laws
of Lycurgus, under which she had risen to consequence, had
become subverted by Persian gold and other causes of corrup-
tion ; and the self-sacrificing spirit of public virtue had passed
from a degenerate people. From the effect of the laws of Ly-
curgus, the power of education may be inferred. If it could
lead men to form and preserve, for so long a period, characters
contrary, in some respects, to reason and nature, much more
might it establish them in the reasonable practices of true reli-
gion and virtue.
12. The chief power in Athens being vested in persons sup-
ported by the Lacedaemonian interest, the most cruel and arbi-
trary measures ensued. Critias, the chief of the thirty tyrants,
had formerly been banished from the city, and he now sought
to gratify his revenge by shedding the blood of his countrymen.
Yet amidst the scenes of tyranny, murder and profligacy which
reigned in Athens, one individual shines forth with the lustre of
virtue. Socrates, the philosopher, conforming his practice to
the principles of morality which he taught, resisted the torrent
of vice, with calmness and intrepidity.
13. The reign of the tyrants could not long continue. The
same year in which it was established, the virtuous Thrasybu-
lus, at the head of a number of his exiled countrymen, entered
the city, attacked and defeated the tyrants. Favored by a Spar-
tan party under Pausanias, the king, he procured the banish-
ment of the tyrants, and the restoration of Solon's constitution.
But the better spirit of Greece had departed. The tyranny of
9. What happened at Notium ? What was the consequence to Alcibia-
<jes i — io. What occurred at iEgos-Potamos ? After this disastrous de-
feat what happened to Athens?— 11. What state was now at the head of
the Grecian confederacy ?— 12. What was the condition of Athens under
the thirty tyrants ? — 13. By whom were they expelled ?
THE RETREAT OF THE TEN THOUSAND.
81
the many followed that of the few. This fact is strikingly il-
lustrated by the condemnation of Socrates. His death was pro-
cured by the Sophists, a sect whose opinions he justly despised.
Having taken the poisonous hemlock, he calmly conversed with
his friends till the moment of his dissolution. One of his dis-
ciples expressed his regret that he should die innocent. Socra-
tes said, with a smile, " Would you have me die guilty ?"
Ancient His.
CHAPTER VII.
Persian War. — Thebes.
1. Darius Nothus, king of Persia, died about the close of
the Peloponnesian war, and was succeeded by his eldest son,
Artaxehxes. Cyrus, another son of Darius, called the younger
Cyrus, retained the government of western Asia, as a satrap of
his brother. Mutual jealousies and quarrels ensued between
the brothers. At length Cyrus raised a considerable army, and
engaged in his service 13,000 Grecian mercenaries. With
these he marched towards Persia. On his arrival at Cunaxa, he
was met by Artaxerxes at the head of his army, and defeated
and slain. This prince is much extolled by historians. Xeno-
phon, overlooking his lawless ambition, declares, that next to
Cyrus the Great, he was the man most worthy to be a king.
2. The Persian followers of Cyrus submitted. The Grecian
generals were invited to a council and treacherously slain. Ten
thousand Greeks, under Xenophon, the historian, alone re-
mained. They resolutely bent their steps, amidst appalling
dangers, towards their distant home ; and, through an enemy's
country, effected the most memorable retreat which history has
recorded.
3. The Persian monarch, offended with the Greeks for the
part they had taken in his brother's revolt, his satrap Tisa-
phernes attacked some Grecian cities on the coast of Asia Minor.
These applied to Sparta for aid, and troops were accordingly
sent, who united with the 10,000 under Xenophon. But little
progress was however made against the Persians, until the
arrival in Asia Minor of Agesilaus, the wise and valiant king of
Sparta. His energy and address proved effectual to their relief,
and drew over to his interest some of the Persian commanders.
He invaded Phrygia, and, the succeeding summer, defeated a
Persian army near Sardis. These successes led the Greeks to
the project of the conquest of Persia, which Agesilaus seems
13. What account can you give of the death of Socrates ?
Chap. VII. — 1. Give an account of the younger Cyrus. — 2. Of the re-
treat of the 10,000 ? — 3. Give some account of the military operations in
Asia Minor. To what project did the Grecian successes lead ?
401.
CUNAXA.
Tbeyounger
Cyrus de-
feated and
slain.
Xenophon
retreats
from Cu-
naxa to
Greece with
10,000 men.
SARDIS.
Greeks de-
feat the Per-
sians and
project a
great
scheme.
82
SPARTAN AGGRESSIONS.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VII.
CORONEA
Spartans
defeat the
Thebans.
CMDUS.
Athenians
destroy the
Spartan
fleet.
386.
Sparta takes
Mantinea
and
Olynthus.
Takes pos-
session of
Thebes.
380.
Pelopidas
restores
liberty to
Thebes.
the first to have formed, and which afterwards Philip of Mace-
don meditated, and his son Alexander executed. But a war
which broke out between Sparta and Thebes, and which Per-
sian bribery and intrigues had been instrumental in producing,
obliged Agesilaus to return to Greece.
4. THEBES. — During the decay of the Athenian power,
Thebes, the capital of Bceotia, had been increasing in strength.
The Lacedaemonians plundered the holy land of Elis. This
gave the Thebans a pretext to oppose the tyranny of that state.
Agesilaus, at the head of an army, passed through northern
Greece and entered Boeotia. A battle between the Spartans and
Thebans was fought near Coronea, in which the former ob-
tained a complete victory. Their success by land was, how-
ever, counterbalanced by the loss of a naval battle near Cnidus,
where their fleet was destroyed by the Athenians and Persians
under Conoiv. Sparta here lost her maritime supremacy. This
war desolated Greece for eight years. Persia, whose gold had
fomented it, dictated the conditions of the peace, and obtained
for herself the cession of the Asiatic colonies.
5. Sparta next attacked Mantinea, a town of Arcadia, and
Olynthus, a city of Chalcidice, where this haughty power as-
sumed to put down the democratical form of government. A
Spartan army passing through Thebes, on its way to Olynthus,
found that city divided into the usual oligarchical and demo-
cratical factions, which were possessed of nearly equal power.
Phcebidas, the Spartan commander, joined the oligarchical
party, and unsuspected by the peaceful citizens, garrisoned the
citadel with his troops. Ismenias, the leader of the democra-
tical party, and first magistrate of the city, was seized on the
charge of treason, and imprisoned in the citadel. Many of the
Thebans fled, and four hundred of them took refuge in Athens.
The Lacedaemonians, although they fined Phoebidas, and de-
prived him of the command, yet evinced their approbation of
his measures, by retaining the garrison in the citadel, while
they sent for Ismenias to Sparta, where he was tried, condemned
and executed.
6. A plan for restoring liberty to Thebes, was now formed
by some Theban exiles, headed by one of their number, the in-
trepid Pelopidas. They left Athens in disguise and entered
Thebes in the night. They completely surprised their oppo-
nents, and throwing open the prison doors, proclaimed liberty
to all the citizens. Pelopidas was appointed governor, and re-
ceiving aid from Athens, he besieged the citadel. The Lacedae-
monians, after a few days' resistance, capitulated, on condition
of being allowed to return to their country. Athens, since the
expulsion of the tyrants, had regained a part of her former in-
4. What state of Greece was now rising to power ? By whom was the
battle of Coronea fought ? Give an account of the naval battle and its con-
sequences. What is said of the peace which was concluded ? — 5. Relate
the overbearing measures of Sparta. — 6, How did Thebes regain her li-
berty ?
BRIEF SUPREMACY OF THEBES.
83
PERIOD V,
CHAP. VII.
an.
LEUCTRJl.
Thebans
defeat the
Spartans.
fluence 5 her navy which had been destroyed, was now increased, -Ancient Hit.
and the fortifications of the Piraeus rebuilt. From Athens,
Thebes hoped to derive aid ; but when the Lacedaemonians en-
tered Boeotia with a powerful army, the Athenians, struck with
terror, shrunk from the war, and renounced their alliance
with Thebes.
7. The Lacedaemonians, being now at peace with Athens, and
in alliance with the other Grecian states, advanced undei Cleom-
brotus, one of their kings, with a powerful army into Boeotia,
Nothing was left to the Thebans, but victory or entire destruc-
tion. In Epaminondas they had a general suited to a great
emergency. Possessed of powerful talents, of military skill-.
and of a heart glowing with zeal in the cause of his country,
he obtained the unlimited confidence of the people. A decisive
engagement was fought at Leuctra, in which this general, aided
by Pelopidas, led on the Thebans to victory. The Lacedaemo-
nians had the mortification, (unfelt for ages,) of being vanquished
by inferior numbers.
8. Epaminondas, though in the dead of winter, pushed his
successes, invaded the Peloponnesus, and penetrated even to
Sparta. He had introduced a new and improved system of mi-
litary tactics, and was considered the ablest commander in
Greece. The Laconians, long oppressed by the Spartan aristo-
cracy, took advantage of the occasion to revolt; and were
joined by many of the Helots. Athens, now jealous of Thebes,
sent an army to the assistance of the distressed Spartans. Both
the Lacedaemonians and the Thebans had sent to the Persian
king for aid. He, declaring in favor of Thebes, issued decrees,
in which he assumed a superiority over Greece, offensive alike
to Sparta and to Athens.
9. The aim of Thebes at supremacy in Greece was now ap-
parent, and produced the disaffection of her allies. Her great-
ness, depending on the talents of her generals, Pelopidas and
Epaminondas, could not survive them. Pelopidas being again
sent against the Thessalians, won a battle, but fell in the com-
bat. Epaminondas advanced into the Peloponnesus. Though
deserted by a part of his allies, he fought with desperate bravery
the renowned battle of Mantinea, where, at the moment of vic-
tory, he was slain. With him the power of Thebes expired.
10. The Amphictyonic council, which, during the supremacy
of Athens and Sparta, possessed little power, had risen again
into something of its former importance. The Thebans now
prosecuted the Lacedaemonians for the seizure of the citadel,
and obtained a decision of the council in their favor, Lacedae-
mon being fined 500 talents. Another decree of the Amphic-
6. Did the Athenians continue to aid them ? Had their condition im-
proved?— T. What great commander had the Thebans? What important
battle can you give some account of? — 8. What further account can you
give of Epaminondas ? What part did the Persian king act ? — 9. What
was now the aim of Thebes ? On what did her greatness depend ? What
was the fate of the two generals ? — IO. What council do we again hear of?
What decision did they make in the case of the Thebans and Spartans ?
Laconians
revolt.
Persia takee
the air of a
sovereign.
362.
MAMTI-
JfEA.
Thebans
defeat the
Spartans.
Amphic-
tyons make
two
decisions.
84
PHILIP OP MACEDON.
.ancient His, tyons, less just, proved disastrous in its consequences. A vague
and doubtful tradition existed, that the rich Cirrhean plain,
which had long been cultivated by the Phocians, furnishing
subsistence to many of them, had anciently been consecrated
by the Amphic tyons to the Delphian Apollo. A decision was
now obtained by the Thebans, who were inveterate enemies of
the Phocians, compelling them to cease from the use of the
sacred land, and pay a heavy fine for its former occupancy.
This gave rise to a civil war of ten years' continuance, which
Sacred war. embroiled all Greece, known by the name of the " Second Sa-
cred War."
period v
CHAP- VIII
357.
Phocian,
or second
CHAPTER VIII.
Macedonia.
360.
Philip of
Macedon.
Philip op-
posed by
Demosthe-
nes and
Phocion.
1. The supremacy of Sparta was annihilated, the short-lived
glory of Thebes was past, and Athens, though increasing in
strength, was still unable to make good any claim of authority
over the other states. Philip, king of Macedon, a man of
powerful and cultivated talents, took advantage of the times to
forward his own ambitious views. This prince had been the
pupil of Epaminondas, and had learned of him the system of
military tactics, which he had invented. Macedonia, but little
known before the Persian invasion, was supposed to have been
originally peopled from Argos, though it was not considered
one of the Grecian states. From the first Greek invasion to the
battle of Plataea, it was subject to Persia. Subsequently it be-
came independent, and now under Philip it was rising to
power.
2. This ambitious monarch designed it to become the head of
Greece. For this purpose, it was necessary to procure its ad-
mission into the Grecian confederacy. The Phocians, by the
plunder of the temple of Delphi, had rendered their cause un-
popular, and Philip joined the Thebans. The Phocians were
conquered, and the council of the Amphictyons decreed that ;
the Amphictyonic rights of the Phocians should be transferred
to the Macedonians. This was highly displeasing both to the
Spartans and to the Athenians. But the crafty Macedonian had
his faction in every state of Greece. In Athens there was, how-
ever, a powerful party against him, led by the great orator De-
mosthenes, and Phocion, a celebrated Athenian. Aware of his
lO. "What gave rise to the Phocian, or second Sacred war ?
Chap. VIII. — 1. What was now the condition of the principal states of
Greece ? Give an account of Philip of Macedon. Of Macedonia. — 2.
How did Philip procure the admission of Macedonia into the Grecian con-
federacy ? Give some account of his eloquent opponent. (See 2 and 3.)
ALEXANDER THE GREAT.
85
subtle policy, and foreseeing in its success the destruction of the
remains of Grecian freedom, they resolutely opposed it.
3. The faction of Philip again excited the religious sensi-
bilities of the people, to use them for his interest. The Locrians
were now accused of cultivating the sacred lands of Apollo, and
this new sacrilege must be avenged. The obsequious Amphic-
tyons met, and made Philip their general. Demosthenes, in
notes of thunder, raised a voice of such burning severity, that
to this day the overwhelming accusations of orators are called
"philippics." He so far prevailed, that Athens and Thebes headed
an armed league against him. Philip met the army of the allies
at Chaeronea. He was completely victorious, and the independ-
ence of Greece received its death-blow. A Macedonian garri-
son was placed in the citadel of Thebes. But the measures of
Philip towards his conquered foes were mild and forbearing.
Instead of proceeding towards Athens as a conqueror, to take
vengeance on his enemies, he released the Athenian prisoners
without ransom, and offered peace.
4. Philip next meditated the bold scheme of the conquest
of Persia. He summoned a general assembly of the Amphic-
tyons, who met at Corinth, and determined on its invasion.
Philip of course was appointed captain-general of the Grecian
forces. Philip died within the year, but he left a son, and that
son was Alexander. The barbarians of the north had reluc-
tantly submitted to the Macedonian power, and they now re-
volted i the Greeks, to whom the yoke of bondage was yet new,
manifested a spirit of rebellion, and the whole kingdom became
the scene of tumult and commotion. Alexander had from his
earliest years manifested great talents, and a haughty but gene-
rous spirit. While yet a boy he broke the celebrated horse
Bucephalus, and ever after controlled that fiery animal, which
never suffered any other man to mount him. The philosopher
Aristotle, invited by his father, had been his preceptor, and in-
structed him in all the learning of the times.
5. On Alexander's accession to the throne of Macedon, he
first turned his arms against the barbarians. Having subdued
them, he hastened to chastise the revolted Thebans. He stormed
their city, and caused, with a cruelty which he afterwards re-
pented, their old men, their women and children to be massa-
cred in the streets, and their buildings to be levelled with the
ground, sparing only the house of the poet Pindar. Athens
now trembled, for Alexander said, u Demosthenes called me a
boy, but I will show him, before the gates of Athens, that T am
a man." But the Athenians submitted, and Alexander, needing
their services, spared them.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VIII.
346.
Philip
the subject
of Demos-
thenes'
harangues.
33§.
CHJERO-
NEA.
Philip con-
quers the
Athenians
and
Thebans.
336.
Philip mur-
dered by
Pausanius
at iEgae.
Alexander
the Great.
Aristotle his
teacher.
He destroys
Thebes.
3. By whom was the battle mentioned fought, and what was its conse-
quence ? How did he treat the conquered ? — •*. What bold scheme did
Philip next meditate ? What was done by the Amphictyons ? What change
of sovereigns occurred ? What was the state of Alexander's empire on his
father's death ? What account can you give of Alexander's early years?
Who was his perceptor ? — 5. What were his first measures as a sovereign ?
86
ALEXANDER S VICTORIES.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VIII.
Alexander
appointed
commander
of the
Grecian
forces.
334.
GRAM-
CUS.
Alexander
defeats the
Persians.
333.
ISSUS.
Alexander
again
defeats the
Persians.
Takes
Damascus
and Tyre.
Conquers
Egypt.
332.
Founds
Alexandria.
331.
JIRBELA.
Alexander's
final con-
quest of the
Peisians.
6. Another council of the Amphictyons was called at
Corinth. All the deputies except those of Lacedaemon, being
awed by the arms of Alexander, appointed him commander of
the Grecian forces, and again sanctioned the attempt to conquer
Persia. That empire had been declining for several preceding
reigns. The effeminacy of its monarchs, and the extent of its
territory, had left much to the control of the different satraps ;
and internal dissensions and divisions had so weakened the em-
pire of Darius, the reigning monarch, that notwithstanding his
great resources, he was now little fitted for a contest with a
warlike nation, headed by so daring a commander.
7. With an army of not more than 30,000 foot and 500
horse, Alexander advanced and crossed the Hellespont. Mem-
non, the most efficient general of Darius, with an army of
600,000, gave him battle at a ford of the rapid Granicus. Alex-
ander and his troops fought like madmen. Hard pressed, he
was himself saved by his friend Clitus, from the stroke of a
Persian battle-axe. At length the Greeks forced the passage of
the river and defeated the Persians with great slaughter. Sardis
submitted to the conqueror. The Grecian cities willingly be-
came his allies, and by conciliation or force, he made himself
master of all Jisia Minor.
8. The ensuing year he met, near Issus, the main army of
the Persians, under the command of Darius himself, and again
he was the victor. The slaughter of the Persians was immense.
Darius and a part of his cavalry escaped, but his wife and fa-
mily fell into the hands of Alexander, who treated them with
hospitality and respect. Instead of pursuing Darius, the con-
queror took Damascus, and then marched into Phoenicia. Some
of the cities submitted to him without resistance ; but Tyre, still
the wealthiest and most powerful, maintained a siege of seven
months, after which it was taken by assault. Egypt, to which
he immediately proceeded, next submitted. During his stay in
that ancient country, he founded the city of Alexandria. He
visited the temple of Jupiter-Ammon, in Lybia, from a vain-
glorious desire to be called the son of Jupiter.
9. The ensuing spring he again marched towards Persia ; and
having crossed the Euphrates and Tigris, he met at Arbela
700,000 Persians, commanded by Darius, and fought there a
more desperate battle, than even that of Issus. Notwithstand-
ing the situation was more favorable to the Persian cavalry, the
military skill of the Macedonian phalanx gave them the victory.
Darius again fled. His army was now destroyed, and his power
at an end. Alexander obtained possession of the southern pro-
vinces of his empire almost without resistance. So rapid were
6. What course was taken by the Amphictyons ? What was the condi-
tion of Persia ? — T. Give an account of Alexander's expedition up to the
time of the battle of Issus. — 8. Relate the circumstances attending the battle
of Issus. What places did Alexander next conquer ? What city was found-
ed ? What place visited? — 9. Give an account of the battle in which the
Persian power was finally broken.
HIS GREAT EMPIRE.
8T
his movements, that Darius, who fled before him, was com-
pelled to retreat into Bactria, while all Media yielded to the
conqueror. The friendless monarch was here inhumanly mur-
dered by a dependant, named Bessus, the governor of the pro-
vince. For this act of ingratitude and treachery, he expected to
be rewarded ; but Alexander eventually punished his crime by a
cruel death.
10. The conqueror, wishing to assimilate the people of his
extensive empire, adopted the Persian dress, married St atira, the
daughter of Darius, and caused many of his officers to marry
Persian women. He spent three years, partly in the intoxicating
enjoyment of the immense wealth which he found in the royal
cities of Babylon, Susa, Ecbatana and Persepolis. In the latter
place, at the instigation of Thais, an Athenian courtesan, he set
fire to the palace. A part of the time he devoted to reducing
the remaining provinces of his empire to entire subjection.
Once, during the period, he successfully carried his arms against
the Scythians.
11. New schemes opened before the conqueror. But his
troops, long absent from their country, and insensible to the
glory of extending conquests, from which they could not hope to
derive any advantage, murmured, and turned their eyes wistfully
towards Greece. They liked not Alexander's adoption of the
Persian dress, and his evident preference for oriental customs.
He had become elated by his conquests, intemperate in wine,
and in the indulgence of his passions. In the fury of his anger,
he had caused his devoted friends, Parmenio, and his son, to be
executed ; and with his own hand, in a drunken revel, he had
killed Clitus, who saved his life at the Granicus, His troops,
in disgust, revolted, — but when their favorite commander showed
his stern displeasure, the veterans came unarmed, and stood, for
two days, imploring his clemency. He wept, forgave them,
made them presents, and led them forth again, to make, as he
vainly believed, the conquest of the world.
12. He carried his arms beyond the Indus, with uniform suc-
cess. Taxilus, one of the Indian kings, came forth in peace.
" O Alexander," said he, " wherefore should we fight. If I
have more riches than you, I will give you a part. If you have
most, I am willing to owe you a favor." With him Alexan-
der exchanged presents. Porus, a wise and valiant king was
brought prisoner before him. " How do you wish to be treat-
ed," asked the conqueror. "Like a king," replied Porus.
Again the army remonstrated j and after erecting twelve altars at
the utmost limit of his conquests, Alexander turned his course.
When he regained the Indus, he found there his fleet under
Jlncient His
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VIII.
32?-
The army of
Alexander
disaffected,
are subdued
by their
strong at-
tachment
to him.
Alexander
returns
across the
desert.
9. What was the fate of Darius? — lO. What marriage is here related?
What change in costume, &c. ? How did Alexander spend the succeeding
three years? — 11. What were the causes of the revolt of the army? What
was the manner of their return to allegiance ? — 12. What is said of Taxilus ?
Of Porus ? ' Beyond what river did Alexander penetrate ? What did he
erect ?
ss
ALEXANDER S DEATH DISSOLVES HIS EMPIRE.
Ancient His,
Severe suf-
ferings of
the army.*
Alexander
makes
Babylon the
seat of his
empire.
323.
April 21.
Alexander
dies.
Nearchus. Embarking with a part of his army, he sailed down
the Indus to its mouth, and thence marched through Gedrosia,
Caramania, and Persia. This was a perilous march, where
Alexander had great occasion both for his rash valor, and his
generous condescension.
13. The sufferings of his army were severe, but their courage
was sustamed by the reflection that their course was home-
wards, and their spirits were cheered by the noble conduct of
their commander. On one occasion, a little water, in a time of
great drought, was found, from which a soldier rilled a helmet,
and brought it to the thirsting prince. Alexander looked upon
his famished troops and poured the water on the ground; not
choosing to enjoy a refreshment, in which his companions could
not share. Arrived at Babylon, he devoted himself, during the
remainder of his life, to the improvement of that city ; having
selected it, from its commanding situation, and central position,
for the seat of his empire. It was Alexander who first projected
the plan of opening a communication between Europe and
India, through the Kile, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean.
But he. whose will never bowed to man. could not resist the
messenger of God. sent to call him to his linal account. After
having been the means of death to so many of his fellow-be-
ings, he sickened with a fever, occasioned by his excesses, and
died in the thirty-third year of his age ; leaving many of Iris pro-
jects unfinished, and his extensive empire unsettled and inse-
cure, and soon to become a prey to anarchy.
CHAPTER IX.
Rome, under its kings.
Fabulous
ages.
(To Alba-
Longa the
Latin lan-
guage is
traced.)
1. While the nations of Asia and of Greece seemed tottering
on the verge of ruin, Rome had arisen and was destined, ere
long, to become the mistress of the world. For the earliest his-
torv of the ancient Romans, we have nothing better than tradi-
tion and the Tales of poets. According to these. -E.veas. with
his father Anchises, his son Ascanius, and a small band of fol-
lowers, fled from the destruction of ancient Troy, and sought
refuge on the shores of Latium. Here he at length married La-
vixia, the daughter of Latinus. the king, and thus became his
successor. Alba-Lomra. a citv of Latium. or a Latin city, whose
12. Trace Alexander's homeward route. — 13. What was his conduct
to his soldiers ? What city did he choose as his metropolis ? What project
did he form ? What can you say of his death I
Chaf. IX. — 1. Is there good historical authority for the earliest history
of the Romans ? What story have we of JEneas? What is regarded as
the parent city of Romulus and his colony ?
THE GERM OF ROMAN POWER.
89
language shows that it must have had a cultivated population,
is regarded as the parent city of Rome. Romulus traced with
a plough the place of the first walls. He was the chief of a war-
like band of men from Alba-Longa, and was, by election, the
first king of the new city.
2. To provide inhabitants for Rome, Romulus invited strangers
to settle there, granting them equal privileges with his subjects.
Those of the citizens who could show a noble, or even a free
ancestry, were termed patricians,, and were admitted to a share
in the government. Of these one hundred were selected, who
formed a senate. The remainder, called plebeians, were sub-
ject to the king and patricians ; each individual, with his house-
hold, being attached to the head of some patrician family, from
whom he received protection, and whom he was bound to
serve. To the protector and dependant were applied the terms
patron and client.
3. Four months after the founding of Rome, Romulus, wish-
ing to provide wives for his followers, invited the Sabines to the
celebration of a religious festival. His soldiers, at a given sig-
nal, seized all the yomig women, and carried them off. They
married them, and treated them with so much kindness, that
they at length became attached to their husbands ; and when,
some time after, the Sabines made war upon the Romans to re-
cover them, they rushed between the combatants, and plead
with their fathers and husbands to live in peace and union.
Their desires were granted, and the Sabines and Romans be-
came one people.
4. The Senate was now doubled by the addition of a hundred
Sabines. Romulus divided the citizens into tribes, each tribe
consisting of 300 men and separated into ten curiae, each consist-
ing of 30 men ; over each of which was appointed, for religious
purposes, a priest called Curio. The senate was the chief council
of state. There was a national assembly, composed of the
people assembled by curiae, in which questions were decided
according to the votes of the greater number of curiae.
5. The first monarchs of Rome do not f eem to have derived
their crown from hereditary right, nor, with the exception of the
two first, to have possessed unlimited power. On the death of
Romulus, Numa Pompilius, a Sabine, was elected to the
throne. His reign was peaceful and just. Revered as a favor-
ite of the gods, he caused it to be believed that he was honored
with celestial communications, by a divine nymph, called Ege-
ria, who met him in solitary places, and gave him instructions
in regard to many laws, which he promulgated. He instituted
different orders of priests. Their duties were performed by
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IX.
152.
Patricians
and
plebeians.
Patron and
client.
Romans
seize the
Sabine
women.
Division of
the citizens
made by
Romulus.
116.
Numa
Pompilius.
Regulations
of Numa.
1. How was the extent of the first city marked? — 2. What was meant
by patricians and plebeians ? By patron and client ? — 3. How did Romulus
provide his colony with wives? What did these women when their fathers
made war to recover them ? — 4fc. Give an account of the senate. (See para-
graphs 2 and 4b.) How were the citizens divided ? Was there an assembly of
the people ? — 5. Give an account of the administration of Numa Pompilius.
12
90
THE KINGS OF ROME.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IX.
GV2.
Combat of
Horatii and
Curiatii.
(Their mo-
thers, it is
said, were
sisters, and
on the same
day gave
birth, the
one to the
three Hora-
tii, the other
to the three
Curiatii.)
640.
Ancus
Martius.
616.
Tarquinius
Priscus.
57§.
Servius
Tullius.
Under him
the laws of
Rome be-
come more
democratic.
In respect to
property, six
classes, in-
cluding the
Equites.
509.
Lucretia, of
a noble
family.
distinguished citizens, not set apart to the sacerdotal office. But
an order of priestesses, called the vestal virgins, were thus set
apart; and it was their duty to guard, in the temple of the god-
dess Vesta, a fire which they were taught to believe was sacred,
and must never be permitted to go out. Numa built the temple
of Janus, which was always to be open in time of war, but
closed in time of peace. The laws of Numa tended to refine
and soften the ferocious manners of the followers of Romulus,
6. The next king, Tullus Hostilius, made war upon Alba,
to force its people to a union of the two cities. It was at length
agreed that three champions should be chosen by each party to
decide, by battle, whether Alba should be the subject or the
mistress of Rome. The Romans chose three brothers, the Ho-
ratii, and the Albans, their three cousins, the Curiatii. The
six fought till five were dead. The survivor was Horatius, who
hasted to receive his honors. His sister met him bearing the
robe which she had wrought for Curiatus, her lover, one of the
slain. She wept and tore her hair, and bitterly reproached her
brother, who plunged his sword in her bosom. For this he was
condemned to death by the senate, but pardoned by the people.
Alba was razed, and its inhabitants removed to Rome.
7. Ancus Martius established the superiority of the Romans
over Latium, and extended the territory of Rome to the sea.
He established the colony of Ostia at the mouth of the Tiber,
and made it the port of Rome. Tarquinius Priscus, who was
next chosen king, continued the wars of Ancus Martius with
the Latins, and conquered the iEqui. He added a hundred new
members to the senate ; and forming three new tribes from among
the plebeians, united them to the patricians.
8. Servius Tullius was the next king. He produced
changes in the government which laid the foundation of the fu-
ture republic. He divided the whole nation into thirty tribes,
four of which were contained in the city, each tribe having a
magistrate who was its head and representative. He also
caused an estimate of the property of each citizen to be made,
and separating the Equites, who comprehended the patricians
and wealthiest of the people, he divided the rest into five classes,
which were again divided into centuries or hundreds. The ef-
forts of Servius to raise the privileges of the plebeians were re-
sisted, though ineffectually, by the patricians, and brought upon
him their enmity.
9. Servius Tullius was murdered at the instigation of his un-
natural daughter, Tullia, by her husband, who thus became king,
under the name of Tarquinius Superbus, or Tarquin the
Proud. He was successful in war, but his haughtiness and ty-
ranny made him odious to the Romans. At length his son,
Sextus, insulted Lucretia, a noble Roman lady. She as-
6. Describe the combat of the Horatii and Curiatii. — T. What was done
in the reign of Ancus Martius ? Of Tarquinius Priscus ?— 8. What regula-
tions were made by Servius Tullius ?-
Proud ?
-9. What can you say of Tarquin the
KINGLY GOVERNMENT ABOLISHED.
91
sembled her husband Collatinus, her father, and a relative,
named, from his supposed stupidity, Brutus. Calling on them
to avenge her wrongs, she stabbed herself in their presence.
Brutus rose, and with thrilling eloquence, voAved to avenge her
wrongs and his country's. Sextus was killed and his father ex-
pelled from the throne ; and thus terminated the reign of the Ro-
man kings. The only change at first effected by the expulsion
of the kings was the transfer of the supreme authority to two
magistrates,) called Consuls, who were annually elected.
10. The Tarquins attempted to recover the throne, and en-
listed in their cause Porsenna, king of Etruria. While he lay
with his army before Rome, Mutius, a Roman soldier, was
taken in his camp prepared to assassinate him. Porsenna was
about to torture the soldier with fire. Mutius put his right
hand into the flame, and calmly discoursing on the contempt
which the lover of glory felt for bodily pain, he told the king
that his death would not avail him, for he was but one of 300
Roman youth, who were banded for his destruction. Porsenna
released him. The Etrurian army, in attempting to enter Rome,
was stopped by the valor of Horatius Cocles. As he was
fighting, a bridge over the Tiber gave way beneath him, and he
swam to the city. The courage of these two Romans so im-
pressed the mind of the Etrurian king, that he made peace, and
abandoned the cause of Tarquin.
11. A conspiracy also existed in Rome among the patricians
to restore the kingly office. With the conspirators were the
sons of Junius Brutus, the defender of Lucretia. He and her
husband Collatinus were first chosen consuls. Brutus con-
demned to death the conspirators, among whom were his own
sons. He witnessed their public execution, while his counte-
nance displayed by turns the stern justice of the judge, and the
tender anguish of the father. During the wars to oppose the
Tarquins, a Dictator was appointed by the senate, and approved
by the patricians. He was to continue in office six months,
with unlimited authority. From his decree there was no appeal.
The populace understanding this, and seeing the axes which were
carried before him as symbols of his power, were struck with
terror, and submitted to his rule.
9. What caused kingly government to be abolished ? — 10. What king
espoused the cause of Tarquin ? What was done by Mutius to make him
believe that it was dangerous to be an enemy to Rome ? What exploit was
performed by Horatius Cocles? — 11. Give an account of a conspiracy
among the patricians. Who were the first consuls? What was the
conduct of Brutus in regard to his sons? When was the first dictator ap-
pointed ? What account can you give of the office ?
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IX.
The
supreme
authority
vested in
consuls,
chosen at
first from
the patri-
cians.
Conspiracy
in favor
of the
Tarquins.
Mutius.
Horatius
Cocles.
Brutus'
stern
justice.
509.
The first
Dictator ap-
pointed.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. X.
The
plebeians
oppressed
by the
patricians
become ex-
cited.
The
patricians
deceive
them and
procure en-
listments.
They
vanquish
the public
enemy.
Faithless-
ness of the
patricians.
49S.
Lartius
Valerius
dictator.
CHAPTER X.
Disputes between the Patricians and Plebeians. — The Decemviri.
1. The plebeians were originally treated with deference, but
the patricians had now seized the government, and the public
lands no longer paid, as formerly, a tenth of their revenue to
the state. The plebeians, forced by taxation to become debtors,
were made bond-slaves, and in the dungeons of the patrician
houses suffered the severest distress. At a time when Rome
was threatened with a war by the Volsci, the indignation of
the populace was roused by the appearance of a man advanced
in years, of a pale and haggard countenance, a squalid garb, and
a withered, emaciated figure, suddenly throwing himself into
the forum.* He was recognized as a centurion of the army,
who had shed his blood for his country. He showed to the
people, who crowded around him, the cruel marks of recent
stripes, which his patrician creditor, not content with his miser-
able incarceration, had inflicted.
2. Excitement spread from the forum to all parts of the city.
The senate were alarmed, — the multitude refused to enlist in the
Volscian war, — and the city seemed threatened with destruction
within and without. The consul, Servilius, dismissed the se-
nate, and attempted to conciliate the people. He promised that
their grievances should be redressed, and declared that he only
sought for a delay until danger from the foreign foe should be
over. To evince the sincerity of his declarations, he now or-
dered that no person should hold any Roman citizen in bonds
or confinement, so as to prevent his giving his name to the
consuls ; that no person should take the goods of a soldier upon
service, nor detain in custody his children or grandchildren.
These measures quelled the tumult, and procured the enlistment
needed. The Volsci were defeated*, and after them the Sabines
and Auruncians.
3. The plebeians, now that peace was established, looked for
the redress which they had been promised, but the patricians
disregarded their just claims ; and open expressions, and secret
cabals, proved that their discontent was deep and dangerous.
The Volscians, iEquians, and Sabines, profiting by the occasion,
again took up arms. The senate and consuls, in dismay, ap-
pointed a dictator. Lartius Valerius, in whose family the ple-
beians had confidence, being chosen, they deferred urging their
* The Forum was an open space, (marked out by Romulus, and sur-
rounded with porticoes by Tarquinius Priscus,) in which the people assem-
bled to speak, upon, and transact public business.
Chap. X. — 1. What change had occurred in regard to the plebeians?
What incident roused up the oppressed people? — 2. What promises were
made to the plebeians by the consuls ? What successes followed ? — 3. Did
the plebeians receive the promised redress ? What was the consequence ?
93
Ancient His.
ROME BECOMES MORE DEMOCRATIC.
just claims, again enlisted, and a force greater than had ever be-
fore been raised, was now enrolled. The Roman soldiers re- period v.
turned victorious from the foreign war, only to see their hopes chap. x.
of relief again disappointed. Valerius, finding it impossible to ^^^^•^^
bring the patricians to reason, resigned his office. The senate
feared to disband the soldiers ; and believing they would feel
themselves bound by their oaths to the consuls, determined
upon retaining them in arms. By this measure, however, they
only hastened the crisis which they dreaded.
4. The army, without waiting for the commands of the con-
suls, retired to Mons Sacer, (the sacred mount,) about three retire™
miles from the city. There, without any commander, they for- Mons Sacer*
titled their position. The senate and patricians, then at their senate at
mercy, sent deputies to the camp, who granted the demands of "^army?*
the plebeians, and allowed them a share in the government.
Three officers from their number, called tribunes, were appointed -««
as magistrates and invested with inviolable privileges, having Tribunes
power to protect the people even against the consuls. All debts elected,
were cancelled, and the debtors released ; but the law remained
unaltered. The tribunes were to be elected annually, and no
patrician was permitted to hold the office. Thus the contest
between the patricians and plebeians seemed terminated.
5. But it was soon renewed. A famine broke out in the city,
the lands having been untilled during the insurrection of the
plebeians. The sufferings of the people were intense. A quan- Famine,
tity of corn was sent as a present by Gelo, king of Sicily. The CorfJ0sinnt
senate debated at what price it should be given to the people. Syracuse,
Marcitjs Coriolanus, a haughty patrician, who had signalized
himself by his valor, proposed the restoration of the former 491.
rights of the patricians as the price of the supply. The peo- j^nfsS
pie heard the proposal with deep indignation, and Coriolanus and joins
was summoned by their tribunes to a trial, and condemned to l e scl
exile. He retired to the Volscians, and incited them to a war
with Rome. In the dusk of the evening his tall figure was es-
pied by their general, Aufiditjs, standing in his tent. Proudly
he announced himself, and offered his services against his native
city. Aufidius gladly accepting them, he marched to the attack
and encamped within five miles of Rome.
6. The senate, unable to depend on the plebeians for assist-
ance, knew not what to do. Deputations were sent, but with-
out success. The priests in their sacred garments went to him as
suppliants, but in vain. The matrons then assembling round
Veturia, the mother of Coriolanus, and Volumnia, his wife, Coriolanus
who led his two little sons, proceeded in sadness to the Volscian his power,
camp. The stern warrior melted at the tears of his mother.
3. How were the people again appeased ? How were they again treated
by the patricians and the senate ?— 4-. What bold step was taken by the
soldiers? What concessions were thus forced from the patricians ?— 5,
What soon renewed the ill-feeling between the opposing parties in Rome ?
What account can you give of the conduct of Coriolanus ? — 6. How was
Coriolanus won back to his country ?
94
IMPROVEMENT IN ROMAN JURISPRUDENCE.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. X.
Romans
send to
Greece for
laws.
451.
Decemvirs
created.
Laws of tne
Ten Tables
improve
Roman ju-
risprudence.
Wickedness
of Appius.
449.
Death of
Virginia by
the hand of
her father
Virginius.
444.
Censors es-
tablished at
first to num-
ber the peo-
ple, after-
wards to
watch over
public mo-
rals and
education.
Weeping, he said, " You have saved Rome, but destroyed your
son." In a short. time he drew off the Volscian troops. The
Romans, in honor of this event, erected a temple to Female
Fortune.
7. The patricians and plebeians were still jealous of each
other. Dissensions arose concerning the disposition of some
lands, gained by a league with the Herulians. Further changes
in the government were demanded, and to obtain these, ambas-
sadors were sent to Athens for copies of the Grecian laws. On
their return, ten magistrates were created, called the Decemvirs,
who were to compile a body of laws for Rome. They were
appointed for one year, with absolute power. During that time
there were to be neither consuls nor tribunes. It was disputed
whether plebeians should hold this high office, and decided that
they should not. During the first year the decemvirs executed
their trust with impartial justice. Assiduously applying them-
selves to the framing of just laws, they produced the ten tables,
which, after being examined in an assembly of the people, were
approved and ratified. It was then said, that two more tables
were needed. For the purpose of adding these, the office was
continued another year, and new decemvirs elected, at the head
of whom was Appius Claudius.
8. These decemvirs held secret meetings among themselves,
governed with haughtiness, and as at the expiration of the year
they showed no intention to lay down their office, their tyranny
seemed likely to become perpetual. A most wicked act of Ap-
pius Claudius, which resulted in the death of the young and
lovely Virginia,* irritated the people to madness; and another re-
volution took place, by which the decemvirate was abolished,
and the consuls and tribunes were restored. During this period,
the cause of the plebeians was gradually advancing. A law,
allowing the intermarriage of patricians and pleh ians, was,
after much opposition, passed. Another law, by which ple-
beians should be admitted to the consulship, was proposed.
The plebeians, though unsuccessful in this, obtained, as a sort
of compromise, the election of military tribunes with consular
power, to be chosen from patricians or plebeians, without dis-
tinction. The censorship, an office confined to the patricians,
was also about this time established.
9. In these broils between the patricians and plebeians, the
common resort of the aristocracy was to weaken the people by
employing them abroad in foreign wars. It was upon the occa-
* Appius Claudius sees this lovely young girl in the streets, and deter-
mining to get her in his power, procures a base man to claim her as a slave.
Her father in vain proves her his, for Appius sits judge. As she is about
to be torn from him, the father plunges a dagger to her heart, regarding more
her purity than her life.
7 . What measures did the Romans take to procure a code of laws ? What
new magistrates were appointed? How did the first Decemvirs execute
their office ? — ^. Those afterwards elected ? What caused their office to be
abolished? What laws were established which were favorable to the
people ?
THE GAULS APPEAR IN HISTORY.
95
sion of the wars with the Equi and Volsci, that the venerable
Cincinnatus, plowing in his field, received the messengers from
Rome, who announced to him that he was appointed dictator
of the commonwealth. He left his fields and oxen with regret;
and after leading the Romans to victory, he returned in six-
teen days to his rural occupations.
10. The Romans, commanded by Camillus, besieged Veil,
an opulent city of Etruria, at a distance from Rome. The war
being protracted from various causes for ten years, the soldiers
were for the first time obliged to stay from Rome during the
winter. A schoolmaster of Veii led forth, for a walk, his schol-
ars, the sons of the most respectable families of the besieged
city. The lads followed with confidence their teacher, but he
wickedly led them by a circuitous route to the camp of their
enemies, to deliver them to Camillus, who thus possessing the
children, might make his own terms with the parents. But the
virtuous Roman, instead of taking advantage of this wickedness,
or rewarding the pedagogue, put a whip into the hands of each
of the boys, and bade them drive him back with lashes to the
city, and tell to their parents his treachery. By this means
Camillus won the hearts of the people, who gave up the city. A
regular stipend was in this war allowed to the Roman soldiers.
11. In the mean time, the Gauls, now first mentioned in his-
tory, invited by the fertility of the southern countries, poured
like a sweeping torrent through the northern provinces of Italy.
The Clusians, whose city they besieged, applied to the Romans
for aid. The Romans despatched an embassy to the Gallic
camp, with offers of mediation. The offers were rejected, when
the Roman ambassadors entered Clusium, and engaged zealously
in its defence. One of them being recognized in the act of kill-
ing a Gallic chief, Brennus, the leader of the Gauls, sent envoys
to Rome, to complain of this breach of the law of nations, and
demanded that the offender should be given up ; but the Romans
haughtily disregarded the demand. Brennus marched instantly
towards Rome. An army was hastily collected; but the sol-
diers, without striking a blow, fled in dismay from the strange
appearance of their unknown enemies.
12. The Gauls continued their march fifteen miles, to the
city. The citizens, generally, had abandoned it, and only some
of the aged, and a few of consular rank, remained. Their vene-
rable appearance, for a time, stayed the fury of the barbarians.
But at length, they put them to the sword. The Gauls then be-
sieged the citadel, which was saved, when they were about to
make a night assault upon it, by the cackling of some geese,
awakening the sentinels. At length, the Gauls agreed to quit
the city, on condition of receiving a large amount of gold, which
was to be weighed. Brennus threw his sword into the scale,
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. X.
405
to
395.
Siege of
Veii, which
is taken.
390.
Descent of
the Gauls
into Italy.
Brennus
marches to
Rome.
9. Give an account of Cincinnatus. — lO. What happened at the siege of
Veii? — 11. What nation now invaded Italy? How did the Romans pro-
voke Brennus? — 12. Give an account of his hostile visit to Rome. His
conduct when within the city.
96
THE BUILDING OF THE SECOND TEMPLE.
Ancient His. wjt]1 tne weights, already complained of as too heavy. At this
moment, Camillus, who had been banished, entered the city at
the head of an army, which he had collected. He told the Ro-
mans to put up their gold, and redeem their city with iron.
Thus aroused, they chastised the Gauls, and expelled them from
by the Gauls' ^ome- The barbarians had, however, burned it to the ground.
The inhabitants wished to leave the spot, and to inhabit Veii ;
but Camillus prevented them. They soon rebuilt the city, though
without order or regularity.
385.
CHAPTER XI.
The J<
536.
Return of
the Jews to
Jerusalem.
Rebuilding
of the tem-
ple begins
525.
is completed
515.
445.
Nehemiah
rebuilds the
walls of
Jerusalem.
408
Temple of
Samaria,
erected on
Mount
Gerizim.
1. It was under the guidance of Zorobabel, of the ancient
royal family, and of the high priest Joshua, that a colony of
Jews was permitted by Cyrus to return and rebuild the temple ;
but the wealthier and the more numerous part of the nation re-
mained beyond the Euphrates, were they had settled.
2. Samaria was at this time occupied by a race who were
not the descendants of the Israelites, but of the colony sent thi-
ther by Esarhaddon, after he had carried away the ten tribes.
They were unfriendly to the Jews, and prevailed on Cambyses,
the son of Cyrus, to forbid them to proceed with the rebuilding
of the temple, and it was not until the time of Darius Hystaspes
that the interdict was removed. Then Ezra, and after him
Nehemiah, brought new colonists, who engaged with ardor in
the pious task. During the reign of Xerxes, Jerusalem was
under the satraps of Syria ; but as the Persian empire began to
decline, the high priests gradually became the actual chiefs of
the nation, though nominally under allegiance to the Persian
monarchs.
3. Nehemiah, in his zeal for the violated law, obliged all who
had married heathen women, either to separate from them or to
quit Jerusalem. Manas ses, son of Jehoida the high priest, was
one of this number ; and rather than part with his wife, he ac-
companied her to her father, Sanballat, governor of Samaria.
The Samaritans had previously blended the worship of the God
of Israel with that of their idols ; and Sanballat now obtained of
Darius Nothus leave to build, at Mount Gerizim near Samaria,
13. Of the manner in which he was expelled.
Chap. XL — 1. Who permitted a colony of Jews to return after their cap-
tivity ? Under whose guidance did they return? Where were the wealthier
portion of the nation ? — 2. By whom was Samaria occupied? How were
the Samaritans affected towards the Jews ? Give the time and some of the
circumstances of the building of the second temple. Under what govern-
ment was Jerusalem ? — 3. What law did Nehemiah make ? Give an ac-
count of Manasses until he became high-priest at Mount Gerizim.
ALEXANDER'S VISIT TO JERUSALEM.
97
a temple of which he made his son-in-law high priest. The
Samaritans asserted the superior sanctity of this temple to that
of Jerusalem ; and irreconcilable hatred thus arose between them
and the Jews.
4. Such was the divided state of Judea, when Alexander the
Great having invaded it, sent a mandate to Jerusalem to furnish
his army with provisions and troops. Jamtjs, then the high
priest, returned for answer that he had sworn allegiance to the
king of Persia, and could not desert his cause while he lived.
Alexander, as soon as the siege of Tyre was completed, marched
to Jerusalem to take vengeance for this refusal.
5. Apprised of his purpose, and utterly unable to contend
with him, the high priest in his distress cried to heaven for
protection. Being instructed by a vision in the night, he threw
open the gates of the city, and strewed the way with flowers.
Clothing himself in the splendid vestments of the Levitical priest-
hood, he went forth to meet the conqueror, followed by all the
priests, robed in white. Alexander met him, bowed, and wor-
shipped. Being asked by his astonished friend, why he, whom
others adored, should adore the high priest, he answered, " I do
not adore him, but the God whose minister he is. I knew him
as soon as I saw his habit, to be the same whom J saw in a
vision in Macedonia, when J meditated the conquest of Persia ;
and he then assured me, that his God would go before me and
give me success.'5 Alexander then embraced the priests, walk-
ing in the midst of them, and thus entering Jerusalem; where,
in the most solemn manner, he offered sacrifices in the temple.
The high priest then showed him the prophecy of Daniel, and
interpreted it to foreshow, that the Persian power should be
overthrown by him. The monarch encouraged the Jews to
make requests of him, which he granted ; and during his life he
continued to. show them favor.
Ancient His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. XI.
Alexander
the Great
denied
submission
332
He visits
Jerusalem
and appears
struck with
awe.
He favors
the Jews.
4. What message was sent by Alexander the Great, and what answer
returned? What retaliation was threatened? — 5. What did the high priest?
What was the behavior of the proud conqueror when he met the procession
of priests ? What reason did he give his friend ? What interpretation was
made by Jaddus of the prophecy of Daniel ?
13
Alexander giving his ring to Perdicca
PERIOD VI
FROM
B.C.
THE DEATH > 3<J3* > 0F ALEXANDER,
THE BIRTH
TO
OF CHRIST.
CHAPTER I.
Empire of Alexander after his death.
1. After the death of Alexander, his vast empire presented
a scene of unceasing tumult, confusion, and bloodshed. His
generals, bold, ambitious, and unprincipled, were each eager to
seize a share of the mighty wreck. The rights of his infant
son, Alexander, and of his brother, Aridaeus, afterwards called
Philip, were acknowledged, and they were styled kings." Their
power, however, existed only in name. The dying monarch
being asked whom he desired should succeed him, replied " the
most worthy." He gave his ring to Perdiccas, who was made
commander-in-chief. Conflicting interests and mutual animosi-
ties, produced constant wars and assassinations. The only
character of virtue sufficient to shed a ray of moral light on this
dark picture, was Eumenes, who alone was faithful to the in-
terests of the royal family. In fact the first twenty years from
the death of Alexander present a tissue of intrigue and crime,
unsurpassed in the history of the world. His wife, his mother,
his son, and all the other members of the royal family, were
murdered. Perdiccas shared the same fate.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP I.
323.
Empire of
Alexander
after his
death.
Horrible
anarchy and
wickedness.
The royal
family and
Perdiccas
murdered.
Period VI. — Chap. I. — 1. What was the condition of Alexander's em-
pire after his death ? What the character of his generals ? What male re-
lations did he leave ? What was the fate of all his family ? Who alone was
faithful to the royal family ?
99
100 END OF
Ancient His. o A league was at length formed between four of the gene-
PERi'D vi. rals, Ptolemy, Seleucus, Lysimachus, and Cassander. A
battle was fought in which they obtained a victory over Anti-
gonus, and his son Demetrius Poliorcetes, who had for
some time held the chief authority. The empire, was now di-
vided into four parts, and one part assigned to each of the four
generals who formed the league. 1st, Ptolemy assumed the
tigonus' and regal power in Egypt ; 2d, Seleucus, in Syria and Upper Asia ;
ins son. 3^ Lysimachus, in Thrace and Asia Minor as far as Taurus,
and 4th, Cassander took as his share Macedonia.
3. EGYPT. — Under Ptolemy, surnamed Soter, or Savior,
Alexandria, which he made his capital, rapidly rose, until it
301. became the seat of commerce and the sciences. He protected
Ptolemy So- the national religion, which procured him the love and submis-
Yhegwe^n- s*011 °f his people; while his kind and courteous behavior to
mem. foreigners drew multitudes, especially of Jews, to his capital.
283. ^ a^ tne successors of Alexander, Ptolemy alone was fitted to
build up an empire, and though sometimes drawn into the wars
of the other princes, he generally preserved Egypt in peace, and
transmitted the kingdom entire.
p. Phiiadei- 4. His reign, with that of his two immediate successors, Pto-
P24^s lemy Philadelphia, (the most magnificent of the family,) and
P.Evergetes Ptolemy Evergetes, comprised a whole century; during
222. which, Egypt a second time became the seat of learning. The
famous Library of Alexandria was collected, and the city thus
made the resort of the learned from every part of the world.
After Ptolemy Evergetes, the race became degenerate, and the
Romans obtained an ascendency. The beauty, talents and
crimes of Cleopatra, a female representative of the Ptolemies,
rrhisversion again brought them into notice. The Jews were subject to the
from the af- Pt°lemies until the time of Antiochus the Great. Numbers of
leged fact them were brought to Alexandria, where they made great pro-
^erfoccu- gress in sacred literature, and completed the Greek version of
pied in the Sacked Books called the Septuagint.
5. SYRIA. — Seleucus, the founder of the dynasty of the Se-
leucidce, obtained after the battle of Ipsus the government of the
extensive provinces of Alexander's empire in Asia, except. Pales-
tine, and the country adjacent to Egypt, which were governed by
Nicator. Ptolemy. In the early part of his reign he made Babylon the
seat of his empire. He marched to the Indus, to recover the
countries which Alexander had there conquered ; but was met
by Sandrocottus, a native sovereign, with an army of 600,000,
2. What league was formed ? How was the empire divided ? Who had
the part numbered first, and what was it ? The same of the second ? Third ?
Fourth? — 3. What can you say of Alexandria? Of Ptolemy? Of the
condition of Egypt under this king? — 4r. Who was his successor? Who
his ? How long did these three kings fill the throne, and at what time ?
What was collected? Who would naturally come to Alexandria ? What
was the character of the succeeding Ptolemies? What progress in sacred
literature was made by the Jews of Alexandria? — 5. What were the royal
successors of Seleucus called ? What did they obtain ? What account can
you give of his expedition to India ?
301
Seleucus
SYRIA IN ITS MOST FLOURISHING STATE. 101
and a prodigious number of elephants. Seleucus* agreed to -^g*g H^.
leave him in quiet possession for 500 elephants, which he re- perpd vi.
ceived. He was then called to the east, to resist the aggressions chap. i.
of Lysimachus. He conquered him, and thus acquired large ac- ^-^v^^/
cessions to his empire. He extended commerce, and built seieu- "
cities, of which Anlioch, in Syria, was the principal. This city ^tor"
he made his capital. dtej
6. Antiochus Soter attempted some new conquests, but be-
ing unsuccessful, he weakened his kingdom. Antiochus, im- Antio-
piously called Theos, or God, his weak and vicious successor, ter d."
was wholly under the dominion of vain and infamous women, *2U'2.
and the palace was a scene of revelry and murder. The eastern Antj0_
provinces did not fail to profit by the occasion, and Parthia and chus
Bactria became independent monarchies. The kingdom of Per- *J46 .'
gamus was founded by Attalus. Of the sovereigns of Syria Seieu-
immediately succeeding, some were of the house of Seleucus, ^aiini-
and others were not. ucus,)d.
7. The glory of this family revived in Antiochus III. the *~***- i
Great. He made an expedition into the east, and while he Seieu-
formally relinquished Parthia and Bactria to separate sovereigns, (CemiL
he regained, by their assistance, other provinces of Upper Asia, nus,) d.
He wrested from the Ptolemies the countries which they pos- ***»•
sessed east of the Mediterranean, and meditated the conquest of Antio-
Egypt itself. He received the banished Hannibal at his court; JjjJitJJ
and could these two men have cordially united, they might per- IS1?.
haps, have given a new direction to the current of events. The
history of Syria is henceforward involved in that of the Roman
commonwealth.
8. MACEDONIA AND GREECE.— Alexander had left the
government at home to Antipater, the faithful counsellor of
his father and of himself. On the death of the conqueror, the Ant yater
European provinces were assigned to him. On his decease, a cassander
state of war and anarchy ensued. Cassander, by the battle of 296-
Ipsus, which established the league of the four generals, became fjjjj an"
king of Macedonia and a part of Greece. After his short reign, Alexander.
the feeble princes, his sons, suffered the kingdom to fall into Alexander
* Seleucus, to strengthen himself in power, married for his second wife, 204.
Stratonice, the daughter of Demetrius Poliorcetes. The consuming pas-
sion of his son Antiochus Soter for this beautiful woman, which had thrown
him into a disease — the physician's discovery of this by the change of his
patient's pulse when Stratonice appeared — the resolution of the father to re-
linquish his wife to his son — are passages of history which deeply fix them-
selves in the memory ; and while we admire the magnanimity of Seleucus,
we cannot but be shocked at the little heed which was given to the sacred-
ness of marriage, and the brutal tyranny of the times in regard to women ;
when men considered their wives as their property, to keep or give to an-
other, at their capricious pleasure.
5. By conquering Lysimachus what countries did he gain? What things
did Seleucus, more serviceable to the world than war and murder ? Name
the Selucidae from Seleucus to Antiochus the Great ? (See margin.) — 6.
What time did their united reigns occupy ? In whose reign did Bactria and
Parthia become independent ? What kingdom was founded ? — T. Who re-
vived the glory of the Selucidoe ? What are some of his acts? — 8. What
account can you give of Antipater ? Of Cassander and his sons ?
102 THE LAST KING OF MACEDONIA.
Ancient His. sucrl a distracted state, that Alexander, then king, called to his
peri'd vi. aid Pyrrhus, king of Epirus, and Demetrius Poliorcetes.
chap. t. Demetrius learning some time after, that Alexander was plotting
his assassination, killed him and usurped his throne. Pyrrhus
expelled him. He, again, was supplanted by Lysimachus of
Thrace, who, like the others, retained his power but a short
period. Family quarrels brought on a war with Seleucus Ni-
cator, and in a battle in Phrygia, Lysimachus was defeated and
slain. The whole of Asia Minor and Syria was now united to
Macedonia and Thrace. Seleucus proclaimed himself king, but
on his passage into Europe he was assassinated.
9. Ptolemy Ceraunus, his murderer, who usurped the
throne of Macedon, was soon deposed and slain by the Gauls.
In three successive invasions these northern barbarians overran
Thrace and Macedonia, penetrated to the temple of Delphi, and
threatened to lay waste all Greece. They were at length ex-
pelled from Greece, but made a settlement in Thrace, which was
thus lost to Macedonia. They settled also in Galatia.
10. Antigonus GoNATUS,the son of Demetrius, successfully
AGoifa°tusS contested the throne of Macedonia, with Alexander, the son of
dies Pyrrhus, that great commander having been killed in an attempt
Ph?i?*di'es on ^rgos- Antigonus during a reign of forty years sought to
119. recover the country from its ruinous condition. After his death
PYDNA. this monarchy declined. Philip, who reigned some time after,
Th^Ro- was in league witn Hannibal against Rome. He made war to
mans defeat subdue the other states of Greece who had fallen from the Ma-
thf lastking cedonian dominion. He cruelly put to death his amiable son
of Macedon. Demetrius, and paved the way for what happened in the reign
of Perseus, his successor, — the subjugation of Macedonia to the
Roman power.
11. ATHENS. — On the death of Alexander, the Grecian states
combined against Antipater, who on this occasion appeared in
■©emps- arms against the Athenians, when they submitted. He demanded
tnenes. the orators. Demosthenes, to avoid falling into his hands, fled
32^' to a neighboring city and killed himself by poison. Antipater
dying, Ptolemy and Cassander sent Demetrius Phalereus,
i^SSaiTcy wno ruled Athens ten years. From his rule they were set free
in the case by that elegant and accomplished prince, Demetrius Poliorcetes,
^iorcetes?" who had been sent by his father with a large fleet. After hav-
ing been worshipped as a god by the Athenians, he was recalled,
and with his father lost the battle of Ipsus, when the Athenians
refused to receive him.
12. Yet it was in these degenerate days that the venerable
Angoocfhe Phocion lived, whose virtues Alexander had respected,, and at-
Phocion. tempted to reward by lavish presents ; none of which, that in-
8. Who were invited to his aid by Alexander ? What followed previous
to the battle of Cyropedium ? What, is here related of Seleucus Nicator ? —
9. What was done by the Gauls ?— lO. Where was Pyrrhus killed ? What
is related of Antigonus? — 11. What course did the Athenians take on the
death of Alexander ? Give an account of the death of Demosthenes. On
what occasion was Athens visited by Demetrius Poliorcetes? How did the
Athenians treat him ?
GRECIAN LIBERTY MAKES A LAST STRUGGLE.
103
dependent Athenian would accept. He never sought prefer-
ment, but he was forty-five times chosen general. So much
was he in the habit of exposing vice with severity, that generally
some persons felt themselves reproved. Once, when all ap-
plauded, he turned in surprise to a friend, and asked, " Have I
inadvertently let some bad thing slip by me unreproved ?''
He was ever the protector of the unfortunate, yet the Athenians
condemned him. After he had taken the poison by which he
was to die, he charged his son to forgive his destroyers.
13. THE ACH^AN LEAGUE.— Achaia made the last struggle
for Grecian freedom. A union of twelve Achaean cities, pos-
sessed of democratical governments, and leagued on terms of
perfect equality, had existed from the early ages of Greece until
the death of Alexander the Great ; but the confusion and troubles
of the subsequent period had caused its dissolution. A leader
now arose in Aratus, a native of Sicyon, who united the scat-
tered portions of the league, of which he was made general, and
to which he soon added Corinth and Megara.
14. Sparta, corrupted by intercourse with Persia, had departed
widely from the institutions of Lycurgus. Agis, one of the best
and most amiable of its kings, had attempted a reformation, but
Leonidas, his colleague, caused him to be betrayed and assassi-
nated; and obliged his widow, Ariatis — wealthy, and renowned
for wisdom and beauty, to marry Cleomenes, his son. She
revered the memory of Agis, and, by her discourse, led Cleo-
menes to admire his character, adopt his plans, and make a
similar attempt to revive the ancient constitution. The power
of the king had been swallowed up by that of the Ephori. He
determined, if possible, to restore it. This was opposed by the
league, and a war ensued, in which the Achseans called to their
aid Antigonus of Macedon. A battle was fought, which Cleo-
menes lost. He fled to Egypt, where he was retained a prisoner
by Ptolemy.
15. Sparta received its independence as a gift from Antigonus,
and in the contest between its succeeding kings and the Ephori,
it fell into anarchy and became the prey of tyrants. In a war
with the iEolians, called the " Social war," the Achaeans asked
aid of Philip III. of Macedon, whose kingdom had, after an in-
terval of peace, become powerful. The iEolians were joined
by the Spartans, and, fatally for the independence of Greece, by
the Romans, who, after the Carthaginian wars, subjugated the
whole country. After the death of Aratus, another general
arose among the Achaeans, who, in the iEolians wars, more
than supplied his place, Philopcemen was deserving of a bet-
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. I.
Phocion's
plain speak-
ing.
251.
League be-
tween
Argos, Si-
cyon, and
other cities
renewed.
Attempt to
restore the
constitution
ofLycurgus.
222.
SELLASIA.
The Achae-
ans and
Macedo-
nians defea
the
Spartans
220.
War be-
tween the
iEtolians
and
Achaeans.
211.
.Etolians
form a
league with
the Romans.
206.
Philo-
pcemen.
12. What account can you give of Phocion? — 13. What is said of
Achaia ? Of the Achaean league ? — 14. What was the condition of Sparta?
What attempt was made by Agis ? What was done by Leonidas ? What
was Cleomenes persuaded to undertake ? What was the result of his at-
tempt ? — 15. What now became the condition of Sparta ? What war again
set the Grecian states to destroying each other ? What foreign power did
they suffer to interfere in their domestic quarrels ? What can you say of
Philopcemen?
104
THE ROMAN REPUBLIC.
Ancient His. ter age> gut the valor and patriotism of a single man could
peri'd vi. not now avert the destiny of Greece.
CHAPTER II.
293.
Census.
272,300 citi-
zens (males)
of military
age.
291.
Roman
army pass
under the
yoke.
29©.
Samnites
subdued.
283.
Etrurians
conquered.
The people
ofTarentum
invite
Pyrrhus.
2S0.
PJ1NDO-
SIA.
Pyrrhus de-
feats the
Romans.
Rome acquiring new territories.
1. During the war for the conquest of the Latin states, the
people of Samnium had joined the Romans, but becoming jea-
lous of their increasing power, they first withdrew from their
alliance, and afterwards formed a league with several kindred
tribes against them. In the wars which ensued, success was
various. A Roman army, under the command of the consuls,
Titus Veturius, and Spurius Postumius, was decoyed into
a defile at the forks of the Caudine river, and there surrounded
by the Samnites, so that either escape or battle was impossible.
The whole Roman army, including the consuls, could obtain
deliverance on no other terms than to pass unarmed, and almost
naked, under the yoke.* Then making an agreement of peace,
they were allowed to return.
2. This indignity produced, in the breasts of the haughty
Romans, irreconcilable hatred towards the Samnites. The
senate and assembly of the people did not consider themselves
bound by the treaty, but raised a formidable army to renew the
war. In the battles which followed, the Romans sought
to wash away their disgrace in the blood of their enemies, and
the fierceness of their encounters surpassed any thing in the
previous history of Rome. They conquered Samnium, and after
this no power in Italy remained capable of resisting them. The
Etrurians were next vanquished. The Tarentines became hos-
tile, and invited to their assistance Pyrrhus, king of Epirus. He
found, on invading Italy, that he had not the enervated Persians
to cope with, but a people who, it is probable, would have
checked Alexander himself. His first battle with the Romans
was at Pandosia, and though fiercely contested, the military
skill of Pyrrhus finally triumphed, but he said " another such
victory would ruin him ;" and the polished Greeks, astonished
at the tactics of the Romans, remarked, "These barbarians are
by no means barbarous."
3. Pyrrhus ravaged the country, took the camp of the Romans,
and marched towards the capital. When within fifteen leagues.,
* The yoke was a kind of gallows, composed of three spears, two being
fixed in the ground, and the third laid across on the fop of the others.
Chap. II. — I. Relate some of the early incidents in the war between
Rome and Samnium. — 2. Why did it prove to be unwise in the Samnites.
to treat their foe with indignity ? What king came to assist the enemies of
Rome ? What battle did he gain ?
THE TYRANTS OF SYRACUSE.
105
he despatched an ambassador with terms of peace. The senate
intrepidly replied that no terms would be received until the army
of Pyrrhus should be withdrawn from Italy. Fabricius, a citi-
zen of great worth, but poor, was sent ambassador to procure
the ransom of the Roman prisoners. Pyrrhus attempted to
bribe him, but found him incorruptible. He next showed his
terrible elephants, but the Roman was as little moved by fear as
by avarice. The physician of Pyrrhus sent him proposals for
destroying his master by poison. Fabricius informed his enemy
of this treacherous purpose. Pyrrhus, touched with admiration
and gratitude, released the Roman prisoners without ransom.
4. A Sicilian deputation now imploring his aid against the
Carthaginians, Pyrrhus abandoned Italy, and passed over to
Sicily. Here he was at first successful, but after having relieved
the Sicilians, he assumed such a haughty control over them,
that he lost their affections. The Tarentines, now reduced to
distress by the Romans, soliciting his aid, he again embarked
for Italy. He was totally defeated and compelled to return
to Epirus. The Romans had now made themselves masters of
Italy, but the relations sustained by the conquered nations to
Rome were various. Some were merely allies, retaining their
internal constitution, but obliged to pay tribute, and furnish
auxiliary troops when demanded ; others were compelled to re-
ceive Roman magistrates, annually elected.
5. SICILY. — -After the expulsion of the Athenians, the Sicilians
were invaded by the Carthaginians and lost Agrigentum and
two other cities. Dionysius, the Sicilian general, conducted
the war against them with ability, and acquired the confidence
of the people. Abusing it, he became the tyrant of Syracuse.
He was of so suspicious a temper, that he caused a room to be
made for confining prisoners, from which, as from the human
external ear to the tympanum, sound could be conveyed to an
apartment where he sat to listen to their conversations. Thus
knowing himself disliked and fearing danger, he cruelly destroy-
ed the lives of his subjects. Damocles flattered him. " Thou
shalt," said the tyrant, " taste the sweets of royalty." At a
magnificent banquet, the courtier sat and feasted, when looking
above him, he saw a sword hanging by a hair.
6. His son, Dionysius the Younger, succeeded him, and was
a still more execrable tyrant. His cousin Dion, and afterwards
the amiable Corinthian, Timoleon, overthrew him. But the
Syracusans had not sufficient virtue to keep their recovered
freedom. Agathocles, a man of low origin, but of talents and
military renown, seized the sovereign authority. He, dying
childless, affairs fell into confusion, and Pyrrhus was called over
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
Virtue of
Fabricius
and grati-
tude of
Pyrrhus.
Pyrrhus
goes to Si-
cily, but
returns.
275.
BENE-
VEJfTUM.
Romans
defeat
Pyrrhus.
Dionysius I.
The EIder,d.
367.
Dionysius
II., the
Younger.
Dion.
300.
Timoleon.
344.
3. What followed this battle ? What account can you give of Fabricius ?
—4:. Where did Pyrrhus next go ? On his return what battle was fought ?
— 5. What was taken from the Sicilians ? By whom ? What account can
you give of the elder Dyonisius? — 6. What two remarkable persons over-
threw at different times the younger Dionysius ? Give some further account
of the history of Sicily.
14
106
THE FIRST PUNIC WAR.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
First Punic
war begins
by the
iniquitous
interference
of the
Romans
2®5.
Romans
take Agri-
gentum.
Carthage
mistress of
the sea.
Romans
build a
navy.
26©.
First naval
victory of
the Romans.
25T
Romans
ain ix se-
cond naval
victory.
256.
Without the
city of CAR-
THAGE.
Xanthippus
defeats
Reguius.
to reduce them to order, but in vain. Hiero, a descendant of
Gelon, then obtained the regal authority.
7. Pyrrhus was carrying on the war with the Carthaginians,
and had obtained some advantages, when the appearance of a
new enemy united the Syracusans and Carthaginians, for a time,
in a common league. A body of mercenary troops, called the
Mamertines, whom Agathocles had employed in his wars, en-
tered Messana as friends ; but murdered the inhabitants, and ob-
tained forcible possession of the city. The Carthaginians and
Syracusans were invited to aid the Messanians, while the Ma-
mertines applied to the Romans. Justice inclined the Roman
senate to hesitate, but did not deter them from yielding to the
stronger dictates of ambition, which prompted them to interfere,
that they might turn the dissensions of their neighbors to their
own advantage, They sent troops to the aid of the marauders,
And thus commenced the first Punic war.
8. Hiero soon changed sides, united himself with the Romans,
and formed with them a plan for the expulsion of the Cartha-
ginians from Sicily. Agrigentum, after a siege of several months,
fell into the hands of the Romans. During this siege they per-
ceived the necessity of a navy, to contend successfully with
Carthage. This nation was now mistress of the sea, and at the
height of its power, possessing a large portion of Africa, Spain,
and Sicily, with Sardinia and other islands. But Rome had a
more free constitution ; her warlike citizens fought their own
battles, while those of Carthage were intrusted to men of other
countries, who served for pay. A Carthaginian galley had been
taken which served the Romans as a model, and with incredible
industry, they set about building a fleet. To inure their men to
naval exercises, benches similar to those of the galleys were
prepared on land, where they were taught to perform the action
of rowing. In two months the fleet was equipped, and Duil-
lius, the commander, sailed in pursuit of the enemy. The two
fleets met, and the Romans obtained their first naval victory.
9. A project was formed for transferring the war to Africa.
To prevent its execution, the Carthaginians hazarded, and lost,
another naval engagement, which took place off the coast of
Sicily. Regulus, to whom was committed the African expedi-
tion, landed and took Tunis, where he encamped. The Car-
thaginians received a reinforcement from Greece, commanded
by Xanthippus, a Lacedaemonian of great military skill. Re-
gulus was defeated and taken prisoner. The Carthaginians,
tired of the war, sent Regulus to Rome, to offer terms of peace ;
but bound him by oath to return, if the terms offered were not
accepted. By the advice of Regulus, the Romans rejected
7. How did the first Punic war commence ? — 8. What was the course
of Hiero? What was the condition of Carthage? What advantages had
the Romans ? How did they proceed in procuring a fleet ? What success
had they ? — 9. What naval battle occurred ? Give an account of Regulus.
Who was Xanthippus ?
ROME UNRIGHTEOUSLY GRASPING.
ior
them. He returned a willing prisoner, and was barbarously
tortured and destroyed.
10. The war was for some years carried on mostly at sea,
and with so equal advantage, that there was no prospect of
peace. At length a decisive victory was obtained by Lutatius,
the Roman admiral, over the Carthaginian fleet. The Romans
became masters of the sea, and deprived the Carthaginians of
the means of conveying succors to their Sicilian cities. They
then made peace on condition of abandoning all their posses-
sions in Sicily, paying the Romans a large sum of money, and
restoring their prisoners without ransom. The Carthaginians
thus exhibited a character the reverse of that of their enemies ;
who never, in the most disastrous days of the republic, pur-
chased safety by submission to a foreign foe. Peace was hardly
concluded, when the Carthaginians were involved in a war with
the mercenaries, whom they had employed. Though finally
victorious, the republic was greatly exhausted. The mercena-
ries in Sardinia, catching the spirit of insurrection, rose, mur-
dered their Carthaginian rulers, and obtained possession. The
Romans, regardless of the peace with Carthage, interfered, and
made themselves masters of the island. The Carthaginians re-
monstrated, but unable in their present weakened state to sup-
port their right by arms, they were obliged to submit to a second
treaty, in which Sardinia was ceded to Rome. But the injus-
tice which the Carthaginians thus suffered, rankled in their
minds ; and to this the second Punic war, though delayed some
years, may be traced,
11. The Carthaginians sought compensation for their late
losses, by extending their conquests over Spain. Here also the
Romans jealously interfered, and a treaty was forced upon them
restricting their conquests to the further side of the Iberus
These wrongs to his country were keenly felt by Hamilcar
the Carthaginian general in Spain. He had with him a son
Hannibal, a noble boy, whose heart he filled with the impla
cable enmity which burned within his own ; and at the age of
nine, he made him swear, upon the sacred altar, eternal enmity
to Rome. This he was to declare when he could find or make
a fitting occasion. Hamilcar, and his son-in-law, Asdrubal,
commanded in Spain seventeen years. Most of the southern
part of the peninsula submitted to their arms. To secure their
conquests, Asdrubal built the city of New Carthage, or Carthagena.
12. After the close of the first Punic war, Rome sent a fleet
into the Adriatic, to put a stop to the depredations of the Illyrian
pirates. This fleet secured the dominion of the Adriatic, and
conquered a part of Illyria. The Grecian cities which had suf-
lO. What victory was obtained ? What great advantage did this victory-
give to the Romans ? On what conditions did the Carthaginians make
peace? On what occasion did the Romans deprive Carthage of Sar-
dinia?— 11. What conquests did the Carthaginians make in Spain ? What
treaty was forced upon them ? What did Hamilcar in regard to his son?
What city was built by the Carthaginians ? — 12. What righteous enterprise
was nov/ undertaken by the Romans ? What did they gain ?
Ancient Hi*.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
Carthage.
Mercenary
231.
The Romans
seize
Sardinia.
Rome
restricts
Carthage.
23T
Hannibal
swears
enmity.
Asdrubal
builds Car-
thagena.
201.
TheRomana
destroy the
Illyrian
pirates.
108 HANNIBAL.
Ancient His. fered greatly from the piratical incursions of the Illyrians, hailed
peri'd vi. the Romans as deliverers, and vied with each other in doing
chap. ii. them honor. The Gauls had frequently, since the destruction
v^r~v^»-/ of Rome by Brennus, made irruptions into the Roman provinces,
having joined both the Etrurians and Samnites. The north had,
222. however, remained quiet for some time, and as yet the Romans
clusium. had not crossed the Po. Another irruption of the barbarians
unde^K- now took place, and a bloody war ensued, in which Emilius
lius defeat defeated them at Clusium, drove them beyond the Po, and Cis-
alpine Gaul was added to the Roman dominions.
13. On the death of Asdrubal, Hannibal obtained the com-
mand of the Carthaginian army in Spain. Bent on executing the
**?• plan meditated by his father of humbling the pride of Rome,
takeTsa- his first act was to besiege Saguntum, a city of Spain, under
gumum. Roman protection. Ambassadors were despatched, first to Han-
monstrate. nibal, who refused on some frivolous pretence to admit them to
an audience ; then to the senate of Carthage, from whom they
received no satisfaction. Meanwhile Hannibal prosecuted the
siege with vigor, and at length took the city.
14. SECONE> PUNIC WAR.— The fate .of Saguntum was no
sooner known at Rome, than a war was declared, of which
Hannibal determined to make Italy the seat. With this view he
SJ18. prepared to pass the Alps \ an achievement which the Romans
cSTesefthe believed to be altogether impracticable. He had previously
Pyrenees in taken measures to secure the favor of the nations through whose
the spring. territorjes ^ must pass . having distributed gold with an un-
sparing hand among the barbarian chiefs. Early in the spring
he commenced his march. Having reduced the nations which
lay at the foot of the Pyrenean mountains, he here left his
general, Hanno, with a sufficient force to guard their narrow
passes. He also dismissed about ten thousand of his troops,
sending them home with a view of securing their good will.
Passes 15. The Gauls, being informed that the war was against Italy,
TransSpfne not oruy allowed Hannibal to pass through their territories, but
Gaul during aided him on his way. On his arrival at the Rhone, however,
the summer. ^ found the nations who dwelt on the opposite side, drawn up
His passage to prevent his passage. He sent a detachment of troops farther
RhonVdJs- UP tne river, who crossed it in secrecy, and then came down
puted. upon the rear of the Gauls, who, finding themselves surround-
ed, immediately dispersed. Publius Cornelius Scipio and
Tiberius Sempronius were the Roman consuls for this year.
To the former was assigned Spain ; to the latter Africa and
campaTthe Sicily. Scipio departed for his province, but finding that Han-
mouth of the nibal had alleady crossed the Pyrenees, he stopped and pitched
his camp at one of the mouths of the Rhone.
12. What did the Grecian cities ? Give an account of the war with the
Gauls. — 13. What did Hannibal on obtaining the command in Spain ?— 14.
What was done in Rome when this was known ? What was Hannibal de-
termined to do? What were his previous measures? — 15. How did Han-
nibal succeed in passing through Transalpine Gaul ? What happened at the
Rhone ? What account can you give of the Roman consuls ?
Hannibal's passage of the alps.
109
16. Hannibal, determining to avoid a battle, withdrew his forces
from the sea, and followed up the waters of the Rhone until he
arrived at the foot of the Alps. Here the hearts of the most
courageous grew faint. The mountains with their snowy tops
penetrating the clouds — the naked and apparently inaccessible
cliffs over which their path must lie — 'the hostile Gauls, hovering
on the precipices which hung over their heads, and ready on their
attempt to ascend, to precipitate them into the depths below —
all these were objects calculated to fill them with dismay.
Hannibal used every art to animate their courage. Having
ascertained that the mountaineers abandoned the pass at night,
he, with a small party of light troops passed rapidly through it,
making himself master of the eminences on which the Gauls
had, during the previous day, been posted. At early dawn, the
army commenced its ascent. The Gauls perceiving it, hastened
to their usual post, but to their surprise, beheld it in possession
of their enemy. The mountaineers now pressed into the defile
by various circuitous routes, spreading terror and confusion in
the army, until Hannibal was compelled to leave the eminence
in order to disperse them.
17. The army at length gained the first pass, but they met
new difficulties; sometimes, falling into ambush through the
treachery of guides ; again, led through bewildering tracks, and
over wrong roads; now, intercepted by large bodies of the
hostile Gauls in battle array ; then, shuddering as tremendous
rocks were rolled from the precipices above, crushing in theii
onward course both man and horse. But Hannibal pursued his
way, until on the ninth day he completed the ascent. Snow
now fell upon the mountains, which increased the dangers
of the way. The army, dejected and dispirited, hopeless of
any termination of their toils, were sinking into utter despond-
ency, when Hannibal led them to a projecting eminence, and
ordered them to halt. Here they looked down and beheld the
valley of the Po, stretching out before them in all its beauty
and luxuriance. Hannibal lost 30,000 men, and employed
fifteen days in the passage of the Alps ; and it was five months
from the time of his leaving New Carthage, before he arrived
in Italy.
18. Scipio had returned from the Rhone, and encamped with
his legions at the Ticinus. Here Hannibal attacked and van-
quished him. In the heat of the battle the consul was wound-
ed, and would have been killed ; but his son, a youth of seven-
teen, sprang forward and saved his life. That youth it was,
who, sixteen years afterwards, conquered Hannibal at Zama.
The desertion of a large body of Gauls from the Romans was
the consequence of this defeat. Scipio apprehending a general
16. What did Hannibal do to avoid a battle ? What difficulties presented
themselves when the army arrived at the foot of the Alps ? How did Han-
nibal gain the first pass? — 'IT. After this was gained, what next occurred?
How long was Hannibal in crossing the Alps, and what number did he
lose ? — 18. Give an account of Hannibal's first victory in Italy.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
Hannibal
manoeuvres
to avoid
Scipio i
218.
Hannibal's
perilous pas-
sage of the
Alps late in
the autumn.
Hannibal
arrives in
Italy.
Lost nearly
half his
army.
218.
TICIJVUS.
Hannibal
defeats
P. C. Scipio.
Young
Scipio (af-
terwards
Africanus)
saves his
father.
110
THE ROMAN WASHINGTON.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
Lake
THRASY-
JfEJTUS.
Hannibal
ain victo-
rious
216.
Fabius
Maximus,
dictator.
Fabius lays
waste the
country.
Hannibal
also deso-
lates it.
Mouth of
the
IBER US.
Cneius
Scipio gains
a naval vic-
tory.
revolt, removed his camp to the river Trebia. Sempronius had
now joined his colleague, and the two consuls, with the whole
strength of the Roman army, were ready to oppose the future
progress of the Carthaginians. Another battle was fought at
Trebia, where the fortune of Carthage again triumphed. When
the news of a second defeat of a consular army was brought to
Rome, the whole city was in consternation, but no sound of
submission was heard.
19. The passage of the Carthaginians over the Appenines, on
account of a severe storm, proved nearly as destructive as that
over the Alps. Yet, early in the spring, Hannibal was again
prepared for battle. Drawing the consul Flaminius into an
ambuscade near lake Thrasymenus, a dreadful conflict ensued.
The Romans, surrounded by woods and morasses, and pressed
on all sides by their enemy, fought with desperation. An earth-
quake, which overthrew many of the cities of Italy, and turned
rivers out of their courses, passed unnoticed by the furious
combatants. The genius of Hannibal again prevailed.
20. The Romans now felt the terrors, which they had so often
excited. The appointment of a dictator was regarded as almost
their only hope. The prudent Fabius Maximus, with whom
the American Washington has been compared, was elected to
the office. He first paid solemn attention to religious rites; he
next ordered the inhabitants dwelling in insecure towns, to re-
move to places of greater safety ; and those of the country
through which Hannibal must pass, to leave their homes, having
first burned their houses, and destroyed whatever could afford
subsistence. He avoided a battle, hovering near the enemy,
checking their depredations, and destroying their supplies.
Hannibal, finding his measures to draw Fabius into an engage-
ment ineffectual, wreaked his sworn vengeance upon Rome, by
laying waste her fairest possessions. When the Roman army
beheld, from the tops of the mountains, the beautiful vale of
Campania wasted by fire, its elegant villas smoking in ruins,
and desolation spreading on every side, distrust of the motives
and policy of their commander, which had before lurked in
their hearts, broke forth into open murmurs.
21. While these events passed in Italy, the Romans, under
Cneius Scipio, obtained a victory over the Carthaginian fleet near
the mouth of the Iberus, after which, several of the nations ad-
jacent to that river submitted to them. Although Fabius had
pursued such measures as had preserved the Roman army en-
tire, yet cabals were formed against him, and he was accused
of wanting energy. The sole authority was taken from him ; ye*
his counsels so far prevailed, that for two years, Hannibal was
not able to bring the Roman army to a general battle. When,
18. Give an account of his second. — 19. Of his third. What natural
phenomenon occurred during this battle ? — 20. What can you say of Rome
at this time ? What of Fabius Maximus ? What policy did he pursue ? —
21. What victory did Cneius Scipio gain ? What was done with respect to
Fabius Maximus ?
THE YOUNGER SC1PI0. Hi
however, Caius Terentius Varro attained the consulship, a Ancieni Hi^
different course was pursued. Hannibal drew him into an en- perpd vi.
gagement at Cannae. There the flower of the Roman youth CHAP- "•
lay dead, upon the most disastrous of the battle-fields of Italy. s-*~v^v*>
Hannibal, instead of proceeding directly to Rome, sought first 216.
to reduce Lower Italy. The most powerful of its nations HamJimi"
submitted to his arms, or sought his alliance. Having estab- victorious.
lished his quarters in Capua, the luxurious habits and effeminate 70,poo"three
manners which his soldiers there acquired, are assigned as the ^fJ^J,^
prime cause of his subsequent decline. Envy and jealousy had taken from
also arisen against him at home, and the recruits, which were ^th" Ro-
expected from Carthage, were withheld. man knights
22. \a expectation of aid from Philip V., of Macedonia, with Hannibal
whom he had formed a treaty, and of succors from Spain under commits a
the command of his brother Asdrubal, Hannibal now acted error,
merely on the defensive. The policy of Rome furnished Philip
with employment, by stirring up enemies against him in his own Hannibai
country, in the meantime, the Romans were regaining their remits his
strength ; new legions were formed, and the spirits of the nation Udmeie-
revived. Capua was at length taken from Hannibal ; and though vives-
he had marched boldly to Rome, yet, when he learned, that
while encamped before one of its gates, his presence had in-
spired so little terror that recruits for the army in Spain had 2©1?-
passed out of another, he retired in chagrin. Asdrubal,* his jmztau-
brother, having effected the passage of the Alps, and arrived in RUSA
the north of Italy, was met, defeated by the Roman armies, and feattheSCar"
slain. His severed head was thrown into the camp of Hanni- thJ?ij^J^
bal, who exclaimed in agony, " It is done ; I have lost all my 56,obo. r.
good fortune, and Carthage all her hopes." ,oss 800°-
23. Meanwhile the younger Scipio had, by the terror of his
arms, re-established the Roman power over the territories of
Spain, and, by his engaging virtues, won the hearts of the peo-
ple. The Celtiberians, a warlike people, were gained by his
generous dismissal of a beautiful princess betrothed to their
leader. So great was his renown, that after his return to Italy s^pS^S-
he was elected consul, though under the age prescribed, and vers Spain,
having Sicily assigned as his province, he had the power grant- an Africa. eS
ed him of carrying the war into Africa at his pleasure. He
accordingly invaded Africa, where his success compelled the
Carthaginians to recall their forces from Italy.
24. The grief of Hannibal, when he received the mandate to
return, was extreme. On his arrival at Carthage, he took the
command of the army, and advanced five days into the country,
* There were four Carthaginian generals by this name. One was the
brother-in-law, and one the brother of Hannibal.
561. Describe the battle of Cannes ? Did Hannibal follow up his victory
by proceeding to Rome ? What course did he take ? — 22. From what
quarters was Hannibal expecting aid ? What were the reasons that he did
not receive it ? By whom, and with what result was the battle of Metau-
rus? — 23. Give an account of the younger Scipio? Why was Hannibal
recalled ?
112 END OF THE SECOND PUNIC WAR.
Ancient His. when he encamped at Zama. A battle ensued, in which, though
peri'D vi. the valor of the Carthaginians sustained their reputation, the
chap. hi. Romans obtained a complete victory. Scipio advanced towards
^^~v~v^ Carthage; but at Tunis he was met by ambassadors. The
202. terms imposed by the conqueror, though severe, were accepted
Sc^fofcaii- by the disheartened senate of Carthage. The Carthaginians
ed Africa- agreed to relinquish their possessions in Spain, and thenceforth
nHann1bai!s to restrict their power to Africa ; to deliver up the Roman pri-
soners ; to destroy their navy, and to pay tribute to Rome.
?^'h 25. Carthage, thus deprived of its foreign possessions, and
second Pu- its navy, though enjoying its own constitution, and the name
nicwar. Qf an independent republic, was effectually deprived of all
means of thwarting the boundless ambition of Rome. Even
„ K1 . on the side of Africa its power was soon checked. Masinissa,
Humbled . ■ v ■ ■•. !L \ i • -• i i n • i i
condition of prince of Numidia, who had aided the Romans in the late war,
Carthage. was ^ them established in his kingdom ; and being declared
an ally of Rome, the Carthaginians were obliged to remain at
peace with him.
CHAPTER III.
The progress of the Roman Power.
1, GREECE.— The Romans had drawn the .^Gtolians, and
3toa£JJ2JJ subsequently, several other Grecian states, into a league of
army into alliance. Some of the Grecian cities were dissatisfied with the
Greece. terms Gf the peace with Philip of Macedonia, which followed
the " Social War." The Romans were hostile to Philip, on
account of his treaty with Hannibal, and they introduced an army
into Greece, commanded by the consul Acn.ius.
2. Antiochus the Great was on the throne of Syria. To him
Hannibal in Hannibal, exiled from his ungrateful country, fled. He pointed
Asia* out the grasping ambition of Rome, which he invited Antiochus
to oppose by carrying a war into Italy, offering to command an
advanced army, until the monarch could arrive. The Car-
192- thaginians had the meanness to inform the Romans of the move-
thermo- ments of Hannibal. Fortunately for Rome, Antiochus did not
pylje. take nis advice ; but himself marched an army into Thessaly
Aciiius de- took several cities, and proceeded to the pass of Thermopylae,
feahusAof0" wnere he was met and defeated by the Roman army under
Syria. Aciiius. He escaped with a very few of his troops to Chalcis,
24. Give an account of the closing battle of the war ? What were the
conditions of peace ? 25. What was now the situation of Carthage ?
Chap. X. — 1. What measures were the Romans taking in order to sub-
jugate Greece? — 2. To what was Antiochus of Syria advised ? How was
Hannibal treated by his country ? What was done by Antiochus ? Where
was he defeated ? What did he then ?
THE GREAT ROMAN EMPIRE FORMING.
113
from whence he returned to Asia. The cities and fortresses,
of which he had obtained possession, surrendered to the Romans.
3. The next consul, Lucius Scipio, carried his arms into
Asia, fought, and conquered Antiochus. He now sued for peace,
which he obtained only by resigning his claims in Europe, and
by the cession of all Lesser Asia, as far as Mount Taurus,
and the surrender of half his ships. With a show of magna-
nimity, the Romans freed the Greek cities of Asia Minor,
dividing the remainder of the conquered lands between their
allies. But their moderation was only in appearance. In reality,
they now held sway from the Atlantic to the Euphrates. After
the peace with Antiochus, the persecuted Hannibal fled to
Prusias, king of Bithynia. The Romans demanded him, and
he, whose great, but misguided talents, had been employed for
the destruction of his fellow-beings, now, far from home and
friends, raised his hand against himself.
4 Philip V., of Macedonia, was extending his power, and
waiting an occasion to make war upon the Romans. The con-
dition of his young son, Demetrius, whom he had been com-
pelled to surrender as a hostage, and who was now at Rome,
for a time delayed the hostilities of the father. At length he
received him. The amiable youth had become attached to the
Roman people, and his innocent expressions were attributed by
his elder brother, Perseus, to treasonable connexion with the
enemy of his country, — a design to dethrone his father, and sup-
ported by the Romans, to become monarch in his stead. By
order of Philip, he was secretly put to death. Too late, the
repentant father found, that he had sacrificed an innocent son, to
a base and jealous deceiver. Struck with remorse, he died, and
left his crown to the unworthy Perseus, who sought everywhere
to stir up enmity against the Romans. But after war was de-
clared, his avarice prevented him from affording much aid to his
allies. The Romans, on their part, did not pursue the contest
in Greece with their usual vigor, till at length, Paulus Mm\-
lius, being elected consul, obtained a decisive victory over
Perseus. Perseus fled, was pursued and taken ; and with his
family carried captive to Rome. Macedonia was now a Roman
province.
5. A triumph, as was the case in great successes, was now
granted, by the Roman senate, to the conqueror. History gives
no account of any exhibitions of human vanity, equal to the
triumphs of the victorious generals of Rome. On this occa-
sion, three days were consumed in gorgeous processions, in
which the spoils of the vanquished were paraded through the
streets, with splendid military show, and martial music. Last
Jlncient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. III.
Hannibal
commits
suicide by
poison.
Demetrius.
His melan-
choly fate,
168.
PYDJVJi.
Paulus
iEmilius de-
feats Per-
seus.
165-
Triumph of
Paulus
JEmilius.
3. Give an account of the battle of Magnesia? What was its conse-
quence on the Syrian power ? What was now the extent of the Roman
authority ? What was the fate of Hannibal ? — 4. Relate the history of De-
metrius ? What was the course pursued by Perseus ? By whom was the
battle of Pydna fought? What was its consequence? — 5. Describe the
triumph of Paulus iEmilius ?
15
114
THE WICKED DESTRUCTION OF CARTHAGE.
Ancient His.
PERPD VI.
CHAP. III.
166.
War be-
tween Syria
and Egypt.
Romans in-
terfere.
149.
Cato urges
the destruc-
tion of Car-
thage.
Utica sur-
rendered to
Rome.
The cruelty
of the Ro-
man senate
to an hum-
bled rival.
came Paulus iEmilius in his pompous chariot, blazing with gold
and purple. Behind the triumphal car of the victor, on foot,
and clothed in black, followed the conquered king, with his
little children, holding forth their hands, and imploring the pity
of the spectators. This, says Plutarch, the children of Perseus
had been taught to do, for they were too young to feel their
miserable degradation. When Perseus begged of his conqueror
to be spared this degrading exhibition, iEmilius replied by hint-
ing to him, that he might spare himself by committing suicide.
Paulus iEmilius was however regarded as a man of moderation ;
but his day was before that of Christianity. The miserable
Perseus ended his days in a Roman prison.
6. Antiochtjs Epiphanes, now king of Syria, was success-
fully engaged in a war with Egypt, whose kings, Ptolemy Phi-
lometer, and Ptolemy Physcon, requested the interference of
the Pvoman senate. They sent ambassadors, requiring of the
Syrian prince, in an authoritative tone, to restore the places
which he had taken from the Egyptians. Such was the terror
of the Roman name, that he felt himself obliged to submit to
the imperious mandate.
7. THE THIRD PUNIC WAR.— Fifty years having elapsed
since the close of the second Punic war, the industrious Car-
thaginians had repaired their ruined city, so that it began to ex-
hibit traces of its former splendor. Cato, the censor, an aus-
tere man, now in his dotage, having had occasion to visit
Carthage, and not receiving all the attention to which he thought
himself entitled, gave to the senate, on his return, such accounts
of its growing power, that he awakened their jealousy ; ending
all his speeches, no matter on what subject, by saying, "and in
my opinion, Carthage must be destroyed." Pretexts were soon
found in a dispute which arose between a Roman ally, Masi-
nissa, king of Numidia, and the Carthaginians. While the se-
nate were deliberating on the expediency of immediate war,
deputies were received from Utica, the second city of Africa,
and in the neighborhood of Carthage, surrendering their city to
the Roman power.
8. Having now a convenient depot, the senate no longer he-
sitated to send a fleet to Africa, although the Carthaginian am-
bassadors at Rome made offers of satisfaction and submission.
No sooner was it known at Carthage that the Roman fleet had
arrived at Utica, than ambassadors were despatched thither also,
to make all necessary concessions to obtain peace. The Ro-
mans demanded that the munitions of war should be conveyed
from Carthage to the Roman camp. The Carthaginians gave
them up ; but the means of defence were no sooner removed
from their city, than their ambassadors were informed that it
5. What was the fate of Perseus ? — ©. How was the quarrel between
Syria and Egypt adjusted?— T. What was, at this period, the state of Car-
thage ? What account can you give of Cato ? What pretext did ihe Ro-
man senate find for sending an army to Africa ? — 8. How did the Romans
proceed with the Carthaginians?
FALL OF CARTHAGE.
115
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. IV.
was the will of the Roman senate that Carthage should be de- ■ggg His.
stroyed ! and that they commanded all the citizens to depart.
With astonishment and grief, the ambassadors supplicated mercy.
They could only prevail to obtain permission to send another v-^v^/
embassy to Rome. The deputies went and returned, and con-
firmed the barbarous decree.
9. The citizens, in despair, resolved to defend themselves to
the last extremity. The delay of the Roman consuls, who ap-
prehended no resistance from a disarmed city, afforded the Car-
thaginians an opportunity to prepare for the siege. The tem-
ples, palaces, and markets, were converted into arsenals, where The
men and women worked day and night in the manufacture of Despair and
arms. But these efforts only delayed a fate, which the unhappy e people,
people could not avert. After a bravely sustained siege of three
years, Carthage capitulated, with no other condition than that the 146.
lives of those who were willing to leave the citadel should be Carthage
spared. The city, which had existed for 700 years, and which
at the commencement of the war contained 700,000 inhabitants,
was now reduced to ashes.
CHAPTER IV.
The East.
I. PERGAMUS, a city of Mysia, took advantage of the
war of Seleucus with Lysimachus (both of whom claimed it,)
to assume independence. The weakness of the Seleucidae,
enabled the inhabitants not only to maintain it, but to add to
their territory the surrounding country. Attalus I., a prince of
noble character, laid the foundation of the monarchy. He
was the ally of Antiochus the Great, and at the same time, the
friend of the Romans. His son, Eumenes J J., took part with
the Romans against Antiochus, and when they had vanquished
that king, they gave to Eumenes almost all his dominions in
Asia Minor, and he became an "ally," which signified little
else than a servant of Rome, to be protected in danger, but to
be carefully watched, and punished if not found in the ways of
obedience. Thus Pergamus nominally had her territory ex-
tended, but virtually lost her independence. Pergamus had be-
come, next to Alexandria, the most distinguished seat of arts
and literature. A rich library was collected, which Antony
9. How did the cruel conduct of the Romans affect the citizens of Car-
thage ? Were their efforts availing ? How long had Carthage continued ?
How many inhabitants did it contain at the commencement of the war ?
Chap. IV. — 1. What two of Alexander's generals claimed Pergamus?
What account can you give of Attalus I. ? Of Eumenes ? Of Attalus III. ?
What is said of the progress of the Roman power in this kingdom ? What
of Pergamus in regard to literature ? Its library ?
Pergamus
becomes an
ally
of Rome
What an
ally of Rome
meant.
133.
Pergamus a
seat of
science.
116
PYRRHUS A GOOD GENERAL— A BAD KING.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAI'. IV.
Romantic
history of
Pyrrhus.
(From Pyr-
rhus the
Romans
learned how
to fortify a
camp.)
Maternal af-
fection
inspires
courage.
Pyrrhus is
killed.
272.
146.
These states
indepen-
dent.
184
Prusias sub-
jugated by
Rome.
Mithridates
II., killed by
Antigonus.
afterwards carried to Alexandria as a present to Cleopatra, At-
talus III. gave, by will, the kingdom of Pergamus to Rome,
and the senate made it a Roman province under the name of
Asia.
2. Rhodes became a republic, and enjoyed, for a hundred
years, a splendid period of liberty, commerce, and naval power.
Epirus was an independent kingdom as far back as the Trojan
war; but it makes no figure in history till the time of Pyrrhus
II. Olympias, the mother of Alexander the Great, was the
daughter of Neoptolemus, a descendant of Achilles, and one
of the predecessors of Pyrrhus. His relationship to such
heroes inspired the ardor to acquire similar renown. His father
having been deposed, Pyrrhus was carried in his infancy to the
king of Illyria, who adopted him, and, with an army, placed
him on the throne of Epirus at the age of twelve.
3. At seventeen, he was expelled from his dominions. Ap-
plying to Demetrius Poliorcetes, he was by him sent to the
court of Ptolemy, in Egypt. Here he so ingratiated himself with
queen Berenice, that he received the hand of her daughter An-
tigone, and aid from Ptolemy to reinstate him in his kingdom.
But he had not the wisdom to remain there, and take care of his
subjects. He went first to Macedonia, where he was engaged
in wars with his brother-in-law Demetrius, and his son Anti-
gonus ; and next, he passed over into Italy, to head the Ta-
rentines in a bootless war with the Romans. He was finally
killed in an attack on Argos, by a tile thrown from a window,
by a poor woman, who in the battle saw him about to slay her
son. The last sovereign of the race was Deidamia, his grand-
daughter. A republic of short continuance followed; and
lastly, Epirus fell, with the rest of Greece, under the dominion
of Rome.
4. BITHYNIA and PAPHLAGONIA were formed into se-
perate states, and had their kings during the Persian power.
Bias, the reigning king of Bithynia, defended himself success-
fully against Alexander, as his son and heir did against his suc-
cessors. Hannibal took refuge with Prusias II., who, advised
by him, made war successfully upon Eumenes. Nevertheless,
he was about to deliver him to the Romans, when Hannibal
prevented it by a voluntary death. The Romans invaded, and,
in fact, subjugated the country ; but to keep up a show of jus-
tice, Socrates, the last king, was persuaded, or forced, to give
his empire by will to Rome.
5. PONTUS was, during the present period, governed by
princes subordinate to the Persian monarchs, but deriving their
descent from the same stock. Mithridates II., the fourth of
these, submitted to Alexander, and after his death, to Antigo-
nus, but was by him distrusted and slain. His son Mithridates
2. What can you say of Rhodes ? Of Epirus ? Give some account ot* the
lineage of Pyrrhus? Of his early years ? — 3. Of his life until his going to Italy'
Where, and how did he die? — 4:. What were formed into separate states?
Who was Bias, and what did he and his son ? — 5. Give an account of Pontus ?
PARTHIA UXCONQUERED.
117
JII., after the battle of Ipsus, became independent. The terri-
tories of the kingdom were gradually enlarged. The Seleucidee
had lost ground in their endeavors to subdue it, till Antiochus
the Great, taking a wiser course, conciliated the Pontians, and
married the daughter of Mithridates. The long reign of Mi-
thridates VI. (the Great) presents, in its earlier portion, the
most glorious period of this kingdom ; in its middle course, we
find three disastrous wars with Rome •, and at the last we wit-
ness, with regret, this unfortunate king, — his independent mind
alone unconquered, roaming, like the hunted lion driven from
his lair, seeking friends, and finding none. At length he was
ruined by his own son, and Pontus passed into the hands of
the Romans.
6. ARMENIA, (afterwards divided into Armenia Major, and
Armenia Minor,) was a province of Syria until the victories of
Rome over Antiochus the Great', when his governors united in
throwing off subjection. Armenia Major, east of the Euphrates,
was ruled during a succession of reigns by the family of Ar-
taxius, one of these governors. Tigranes, who married the
daughter of Mithridates, and was the most renowned of the fa-
mily, was obliged, on account of the services he had rendered
his father-in-law, to cede the greater part of his territory to the
Romans, and Armenia Major became a Roman province. Ar-
menia Minor retained its independence till after the Christian era.
7. CAPPADOCIA, like Pontus, was, during the Persian
power, governed by princes descended from the kings of Persia,
and dependent on them. Like that country also, it fell under
the dominion of Alexander, and afterwards that of his succes-
sors, but freed itself during their wars. Ariathus VN. married
Laodice, the sister of Mithridates the Great, who caused the
death of his brother-in-law and his immediate heirs, and placed
on the throne his own son. The Romans, under Sylla, came
in, to settle these disorders, made a nominal king, but kept the
real power in their own hands.
8. PARTHIA, was a large kingdom, which, at its extent,
embraced the countries between the Euphrates and the Indus,
and comprehended the heart of the ancient Persian empire.
The Parthians Avhen they broke from the Selucidae in the time
of Antiochus II., were under Arsaces I. He was the founder of
the family of Arsacidae, which for a long time governed the
country. Though this became a nation so powerful that it was
able to check the conquests of Rome on the east, yet little is
known of its history, except as it came into conflict with that
power. The Parthians, so often invaded by the Romans, ac-
quired a dislike to strangers, and blocked up the former channel
Ancient His.
PERPD VI.
CHAP. IV.
The Arme-
nians rebel
against
Syria.
63.
The
Romans
subjugate
Armenia
Major.
13©.
Ariathus
marries
Laodice.
Romans
supreme.
94.
246.
1
Arsaces
I.
&>
54.
I*
Crass us
tn
invades
\i
Arsaces
P
XIV. j
k
5. Give a more particular account of the most famous of the sovereigns.
—6. What account can you give of Armenia? — T. What of Cappadocia?
What act of injustice and cruelty is here related of Mithridates ? What did
the Romans? — 8. What countries were included in Parthia? What can
you say of Arsaces ? What can you say of Parthia in reference to the Ro-
man power ?
118
THE ASMONEAN FAMILY.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. IV.
203.
The Jews
favored by
Antiochus.
198.
The
Sanhedrim.
14?.
The temple
despoiled by
Antiochus
Epiphanes.
3
».
I
o
SO
9
s
o
(The
name
Macca-
bee
arose
from the
letters
M. C C.
B.J.
which
Judas
bore on
his stan-
dard.
They
are the
initials
of He-
brew
words,
signify-
ing,
"Who
among
the gods
is like
unto
thee,Je-
hovah!"
of commerce from the west to the east, by refusing to permit
people from other nations to pass through their territories.
Hence the East India commerce made its way through Palmyra,
and enriched the country around that city.
9. BACTRIA shook off the yoke of the Syrian kings under
its Greek governor, Theodatus, afterwards king, not only of
Bactria, but SOGDIANA. One of his descendants, Demetrius3
was invaded by Antiochus the Great, but the invasion ended in
a treaty ; Antiochus giving him his daughter in marriage. He
extended the Bactrian kingdom, by the conquest of Northern
India and Malabar. Arsaces VI., conquered Bactria and an-
nexed it to Parthia.
10. JUDEA. — After the death of Alexander the Great, Judea
was added to Syria, and during the wars of his successors, it
fell under the dominion of the Ptolemies of Egypt. When An-
tiochus the Great was on the throne of Syria, the Jews volun-
tarily submitted to him, and assisted him in driving away the
Egyptian troops. Grateful for this service, Antiochus confirmed
them in all the privileges of their peculiar religion. The Jewish
priesthood had continued in unbroken succession; and 198 B.
C, mention is made in history of an ecclesiastical senate, or
Sanhedrim.
11. Judea flourished, and was scarcely more than nominally
subject to the king of Syria. Wealth had accumulated, parti-
cularly the treasures of the temple. Antiochus Epiphanes so
managed, as to get into the priesthood creatures of his own,
who dispensed it to him in presents. The Jews revolted. An-
tiochus took Jerusalem, and began a horrid extermination of
the worshippers of Jehovah, Headed by the illustrious
family of the Maccabees, the people made successful head
against their oppressors. The first of these, was the father,
Mattathias, the second was his valiant son Judas Macca-
b.;eus. He defeated the generals of Antiochus in several battles,
and obtained the friendship of the Romans.
12. The third of the illustrious Maccabees, was Jonathan
Maccabeus, who, attaining to the dignity of high-priest, was
acknowledged as the head of the nation, even by Demetrius II.,
now king of Syria. The fourth of the Maccabees was Simon,
who succeeded his brother in the high-priesthood, and in con-
sequence of military services to the king of Syria, was freed
from tribute, and received the title of prince. His son John
Hyrcanus succeeded to his dignities, and not only maintained
his independence, but renewed the connexion with Rome. He
took advantage of the decline of the Syrian power, and con-
8. How did Palmyra become wealthy ? — 9. Give an account of Bactria,
and observe whether Rome conquered it.— lO. Under what masters did
Judea at this time fall ? At what time do we hear of an ecclesiastical court ?
11. What connexion had Judea Math the Selucidae ? Who was the first of
the Maccabees ? The second? — 12. The third? What account can you
give of Judea in his time? What account can you give of John
Hyrcanus ? Why were this family called the Maccabees ? (See note.)
ROME ASPIRES TO UNIVERSAL DOMINION. 119
quered Samaria and Idumea. With his death „the heroes of this Anci™t -Hfc.
family have an end, and many troubles begin.
13. The Pharisees were a sect whose name implies " set
apart ;" and they had, from their sanctimonious observances,
gained much authority with the people. Zadok, a Jewish phi- 260.
losopher, disgusted with their pretensions, founded a sect called founder of
Sadducees, which went to the opposite extreme in matters of the sect of
religion, denying the immortality of the soul, and the agency of Sadducees*
spirits in human affairs. These two sects, formerly at variance HO.
only in matters of religion, now became violent political parties. Pharisees
Two sons of Hyrcanus, in deadly hostility to each other, opposed to
successively occupied his place, but the race had become dege- them-
nerate; — stained with' cruelty, disunion, and bloodshed. The 453.
Romans came in, as arbitrators, and that, with them, was to rule Pompey
as masters. They imposed a tribute upon the Jews, sent Aris- ^"burn^to"
tobulus, a grandson of Hyrcanus, with his family, prisoners Rome,
to Rome, and appointed one of his opponents, Antipater, as 48.
procurator, or Roman governor, of Judea. He adhered to ^JeHa-'
Rome, and when his patron, Julius Caesar, was assassinated, his mean>
second son Herod gained the friendship of Mark Antony, ffi&miiyof
He was afterwards by the triumvirate made kino; ; and although Herod, with
, •', , I'-ii /. ,, -r-r & , which farni-
a suspicious and cruel man, he obtained the name of "Herod iy "the
the Great." By the generosity of the Roman sovereign, his p^ted^rom
kingdom gradually extended, till it embraced all Palestine, with Judah.")
Idumea ; and from these countries he was allowed to collect
revenue without tribute. It was in the last year but one of his
reign that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was born.
14. THE ACHiEAN LEAGUE.— Troubles having arisen
between the members of the Achaean League, which had till
this time, preserved a shadow of liberty, the Romans availed
themselves of the opportunity afforded by their dissensions, for
dissolving it. An embassy was sent to Corinth, with orders to ^scheme?"
separate as many states as possible from the league. When, to
execute their commission, they called on the league to surrender
those places in the Peloponnesus, formerly occupied by the
Macedonian king, the Corinthian multitude became so furious
as to insult the ambassadors, who were obliged to flee from
their violence. This furnished the Romans with a pretext for
war. The Achseans, although heroic in their efforts to restore
the freedom of Greece, did but perish in the attempt. Crito- Greece sub-
laus, their general, was defeated, and in the same year that jugated.
Carthage was burned, Corinth was also taken and destroyed ;
and Greece, under the name of Achaia, became henceforth a
Roman province.
15. SPAIN. — Wars with the native tribes had been waged
by the Romans, since the expulsion of the Carthaginians. Cato
the Censor had at one time reduced Hither Spain ; but the
13. What history can you give of the Pharisees and Sadducees? Of
Antipater? Of Herod? Of the conduct of the Romans to the Jews?— •
14:. What course did the Romans pursue in regard to the Achaean league ?
How did the war terminate?
120 THE SIN AND CURSE OF AMBITION.
Ancient Ms. contest was soon renewed, and carried on with such success by
perpd vi. the natives, as to give even the Roman soldiers a dread of going
chap. v. thither. Viriathus, a native Lusitanian, was raised to the su-
preme command of his nation, and uniting the various tribes
of Hither and Farther Spain under his command, he proved a
formidable foe. The Romans' at length triumphed over him-,
not in open warfare, but by hiring his servants to murder him.
This act proclaims the degeneracy, which had already taken
place in the Roman character.
CHAPTER V.
Moral degeneracy of the Romans. — Domestic troubles.
1. Thus, by the arts or arms of Rome, the last feeble glim-
mering of Grecian liberty had been extinguished : Carthage lay
smoking in ruins ; Syria had bowed in humble submission, and
Spain had found her native valor unavailing. The Romans
Corruption drew me wealth of these vast and remote nations into their
of public own treasury, and from this period bribery and corruption
Consequent swayed the senate at home, while extortion and oppression
disorders, marked the administration of the provincial governments abroad.
2. Rome was divided into aristocratic and democratic parties,
whose contests were more destructive than the ancient dissen-
(it is said by sions between the patricians and plebeians. The great power
theTiavSn °f tne senate nad given rise to a family aristocracy, odious to
Rome were the people. A law was passed called Licinian, from Licinius
of thepppu- Stolo, whose object was to restrict the possession of public
'lav0"' t°° ^anc* to ^ve nunclred acres. This for a while restrained the
once put to avarice of the wealthy, and enabled the poor to obtain farms
cause^neof at m°derate rates. But at length this law was disregarded, and
their num- the rich secured the public lands, which were cultivated by
pected of3 slaves, of whom the patricians possessed incredible numbers ;
murdering the prisoners made in tear being often sold, or given away, as
ter. in such such. Thus, the soldiers who were called on for military ser-
th^Romans v^ces'> were °ften teft without the means of procuring a liveli-
of their hood, while the rich enjoyed the fruits of all their victories and
slave b.) conqUests.
15. What was the conduct of the Romans in regard to the unoffending
natives of Spain ? Give some account of the Lusitanian leader. You have
now seen how the Roman senate extended their empire — do you believe
that the Righteous Ruler of the universe could look with approbation upon
their conduct ? Review the chapter, and examine the map for the follow-
ing questions. What countries had Rome conquered ?
Chap. V. — 1. What was now the extent of the Roman territories? — %.
Into what parties was Rome divided ? What had given rise to family aris-
tocracy ? What was the law which Licinius Stolo procured? Did this
long remain in force ? How was the land of the rich cultivated ? Had the
patricians many slaves? What circumstance shows that they feared the
slaves ? How were the common soldiers situated ?
MARIUS AND SYLLA.
121
3. An agrarian law was proposed by the tribune of the peo-
ple, Tiberius Sempronius Gracchus. He proposed to improve
the condition of the poor by a juster distribution of the public
lands ; and not, as some have supposed, by taking the private
property of the rich, and giving it to the poor. The law first
proposed was mild in its character. But the enthusiasm of the
populace, who began to look forward with hope, and the ob-
stinacy of the nobles in defence of their usurped privileges,
brought on violent measures. At length the Licinian law was
renewed. Gracchus then made a further proposal, that the
treasures of Attalus, left by will to Rome, should be divided
among the people. The nobility resisted ; sedition ensued, and
Tiberius, with three hundred of the citizens, fell victims.
4. Although the leader was destroyed, the party was by no
means crushed. Tiberius had made the people feel the power
of their tribunes, and they resolved to exercise and increase it.
Caius Gracchus, a brother of Tiberius, some years afterwards
obtained the office. He proposed several laws which tended to
diminish the power of the senate, while they increased that of
the people. But his opponents raised a tumult, in which Caius
was slain, with three thousand of his friends. Thus the aristo-
cratic party finally triumphed over the people. They procured
the repeal of the agrarian laws, confiscated the goods of Caius,
and prohibited his family from wearing mourning. But the me-
mory of the Gracchi, was revered by the people, who afterwards
erected statues to them, in the most public part of the city.
5. THE JUGURTHINE WAR.— Micipsa, who had suc-
ceeded his father Masinissa on the throne of Numidia, had at
his death left his kingdom to his nephew Jugurtha, conjointly
with his sons Hiempsal and Adherbal. Jugurtha dethroned
the sons, assassinated Hiempsal, and seized the whole kingdom.
Adherbal fled to the Roman senate, and appealed to them. Had
they acted promptly, they would for once have had a good
cause. But they suffered Jugurtha's arts and bribery to produce
delay — and the death of Adherbal. Then the senate sent the con-
sul Metellus into Africa. This brave man was bringing the
war to a favorable termination, when Marius, a new demagogue,
who by his valor and abilities had obtained the favor of the
people, was appointed to the chief command. Bocchus, king
of Upper Numidia, the son-in-law of Jugurtha, privately offered
to deliver him up to Sylla, who was an officer in the army of
Marius. Sylla went to the camp of Bocchus, where Jugurtha
was given into his hands. The ambitious Sylla had a seal made
representing the exploit, and thenceforth claimed the honor of
terminating the war. Thus began the quarrel between Marius
and Sylla.
Ancient His.
PERPD VI.
CHAP. V.
112.
War with
Jugurtha.
Metellus is
supplanted
by Marius.
He by Sylla.
3. What family made an effort, to deliver the people from this oppression ?
What did T. S. Gracchus propose? How did he perish?— 4. What was
afterwards done and suffered by Caius Gracchus? — 5. Who was Jugurtha ?
How happened the Romans to make war upon him ? Give an account of
the war.
16
122
ROME IN DANGER FROM BARBARIANS.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. V.
Marius buys
the sixth
consulate
with money.
Metellu3 is
banished.
Afterwards
recalled.
Marius
dares not
remain in
Rome.
91.
Tlie Social
or Marsian
war. Costs
300,000
lives.
6. The genius of Marius procured a triumph for the plebeians,
he being the first of their number made consul. The Cimbri
and the Teutones poured down from the north in alarming
multitudes. Half a million had collected and were moving to-
wards Rome. Proceeding through Helvetia, they were joined
by the Celtic and Helvetic tribes. They attacked Roman Gaul.
The senate sent, during four years, three armies against them
who were defeated. Then they made Marius a second time
consul. Near Aix in Provence, he defeated the Teutones, and
near Verona, the Cimbrians. Thus were already begun those
barbarian incursions, which proved the final ruin of Rome.
7. Marius having delivered Rome from foreign foes, returned
to disturb her domestic tranquillity. He obtained a sixth con-
sulate. Metellus, whom he had supplanted in the Jugurthine
war, possessed an inflexible integrity, — the spirit of better
days. Marius hated, and determined to ruin him. Associating
with himself Saturnius, a tribune of the people, they procured
laws to be passed, increasing to an alarming degree the power
of the democracy. Metellus opposed them and was banished,
though afterwards recalled. The insolence' and crimes of the
popular party now knew no bounds. Marius, although at first
he encouraged them, was at length obliged to call out a body
of soldiers to suppress the riot. Thus he incurred their ill-
will. Hatred already existed between him and the senate.
Sylla, his implacable enemy, was rapidly increasing in popu-
larity, and Metellus, whose banishment he had procured, was
recalled from exile. Marius, foreseeing evil, withdrew from
Rome. Other and pressing dangers for a while occupied the
nation, and gave the factious spirit of the citizens employment
without the walls of the city.
8. The Italian allies of Rome had, from time to time, been
flattered with the hope of obtaining citizenship,* until, despair-
ing of the accomplishment of their wishes, and driven by con-
tinued oppressions, they formed a league among themselves^
which threatened to subvert the power of Rome itself. This
contest was marked by frequent and bloody battles ; victory
sometimes declaring in favor of the allies, sometimes for Rome.
The war was finally terminated by concessions on the part of
* The term citizen, in its common meaning, signifies an inhabitant of a
city vested with its freedom and liberties. In Rome the term became ex-
tended. Those who lived in other parts of the commonwealth received
from the senate the title of Reman citizens, as a reward for services, or as a
matter of favor. Hence the distinction was considered highly honorable.
Besides, some privileges were connected with it. The Roman citizen could
not be scourged, andjie had a right, in cases of criminal prosecution, to ap-
peal to Rome and be judged there.
6. How did Marius obtain a triumph for the plebeians ? What incursion
of barbarians occurred ? What were their numbers ? What was done to
check them ? What was done by Marius ? What numbers of them were
killed, and what made prisoners ? What was done with prisoners ? (See
paragraph 2.) — 7. What was the conduct of Marius on his return ? What
was done by his rival ? Relate what next happened to Marius ? — 8. Give
some account of the Social war ?
SYLLA RULES ALONE.
123
the Romans; the allies eventually obtaining all the privileges
which they demanded.
9. Mithridates the Great, during his conquests in Asia Minor,
had given indications of hostile views towards Rome, by put-
ting to death great numbers of the Roman citizens of Lesser
Asia. The factions in Rome were still distracting the republic.
During the Marsian war, in which both Marius and Sylla had
been employed, Sylla had increased in popularity, and Marius
had declined. War with Mithridates being declared, Marius
procured himself to be chosen to conduct it, but the army re-
fusing to obey him, the command was transferred to Sylla.
10. Open war between the rivals ensued. The fortune of
Sylla triumphed ; — Marius was driven into exile, and in Cam-
pania he was seized by Sylla's emissaries and dragged to a pri-
son in Minturnas. A Gaul was commanded to cut off his head
in prison. Entering the dungeon, he met the terrible look and
voice of the stern man — " Darest thou kill Caius Marius ?"
The Gaul at these words dropped his sword and went forth,
declaring that he could not do the deed. The people, amazed,
took the part of the prisoner. He was released, and escaped
to Africa, a price being set upon his head at Rome.
] 1. Sylla departed for Asia, but not until by his cruelties he
had made himself odious to all parties at home. The Grecian
cities, with the exception of Athens, which had declared for
Mithridates, opened their gates to the Roman army. Sylla be-
sieged that city and took it. He violated the temples of Greece,
and made himself master of their treasures, which he distributed
with lavish profusion among his soldiers ; thereby attaching
them to his service, but corrupting the army. Near Chseronea
in Bceotia, and at Orchomenus, in Thessaly, Sylla obtained vic-
tories over the forces of Mithridates, who was. at length com-
pelled to sue for peace. All claims to Cappadocia, Bithynia,
and Lesser Asia, were relinquished ; and on these terms Mithri-
dates was declared a friend and ally of the Romans.
12. But while Sylla was thus triumphing in the east, a revo-
lution was effected at Rome. The consul Cinna, of the party
of Marius, after the departure of Sylla, having resorted to the
former measures of the Marian faction, was expelled by his col-
league Octavius. He now raised an army, recalled Marius,
defeated the army of the senate, and entered Rome triumphant.
Massacres and horrors followed the entrance of the vindictive
Marius. Rome, deluged with the blood of his victims, turned
her eyes towards the victorious Sylla. Marius heard with ap-
palling dread the approach of his enemy. He sickened and
died, and Rome rejoiced at the event. Young Pompey, who
was rising into consequence, and had the command of some
Ancient His.
PERPD VI.
CHAP. V.
88.
First
Mithridatic
war.
Power of
the eye and
voice.
Sylla takes
Athens.
86.
CHJERO-
NEA.
Sylla de-
feats Mith-
ridates,
and at
ORCHO-
MENUS,
He submits.
Marius re-
turns to
Rome to
wreak hi3
vengeance.
86.
Death of
Marius.
9. Give an account of the beginning of the Mithridatic war. — 10. What
occurred to Marius?- — 11. Describe the course of Sylla in Greece. What
were the conditions of peace granted to Mithridates ? — 12. What had hap-
pened in Rome ? What did Marius on his return.
124
ANARCHY THE FORERUNNER OF DESPOTISM.
Ancient His.
83.
Sylla re-
turns to
exercise his
cruelty.
*8.
Death of
Sylla,
The great
number of
victims of
the wars of
Marius and
Sylla.
Sertorian
war.
TARRA-
G0JTJ1A
Sertorius
defeats the
Romans,
t Ancient
name
Tarraco.
The
Servile war,
troops, with most of the leading citizens, declared for Sylla;
who entered Rome like a triumphant conqueror.
13. He had now overcome his enemies. The senate and peo-
ple soon learned, that they had only exchanged one tyrant for
another still more bloody. He caused lists of such persons as
he disliked, to be put up in public places, offering rewards to
those who would kill them. These lists of proscription were
daily renewed. Whoever favored a proscribed person, although
his own father or nearest relative, was himself devoted to death ;
while those who destroyed their friends received ample rewards.
The streets were filled with the dead. On one occasion, seven
thousand persons were assembled in a small place, and there
put to the sword ; while the insulted senate, sitting near, were
compelled to listen to their groans. To such degrading tyranny
was Rome, the mistress of the world, compelled to submit;
and thus were her cruelties to Carthage, and other fallen ene-
mies, visited upon her own head.
14. Sylla had declared himself dictator ; and in this capacity,
he modified the laws to suit his own purposes. Afterwards he
voluntarily abdicated his power, and although he escaped the
chastisement which he deserved, from human hands, yet God
smote him with a most loathsome disease, of which he died.
In the wars of Marius and Sylla, thirty persons of consular dig-
nity, two hundred senators, and 150,000 Roman citizens are said
to have perished.
Sertorius had been an officer under. Marius. He escaped
from Sylla, and in Lusitania collected 10,000 soldiers, with
whom he made head against Metellus and Pompey, with 120,000 ;
gaining a victory at Tarragona. At length Perpenna, his lieu-
tenant, assassinated him at a feast.
Amidst the disorders of Rome, some Thracian gladiators,
headed by the gigantic SPARTACUS,ran away from their masters,
and posted themselves strongly in the hills, near Capua. Slaves
and the oppressed joined them, till, with an army of 70,000,
Spartacus for a time was the terror of Italy. While Crassus
commanded against him he was defeated and slain.
CHAPTER VI.
Rome passing from anarchy to despotism.
Second *• *N tne east' anotner war witn Mithridates had broken
Mithridatic out. The consul Lucullus had obtained the command in that
war- quarter, and conducted the war with such vigor and ability, that
13. Relate some of the cruelties of Sylla. — l*. What number of victims
is it supposed lost their lives in these civil wars ? Give an account of the
Sertorian war. Of the Servile war.
POMPEY CONQUERS MITHRIDATES. X25
the second year he compelled Mithridates to fly to his son-in- •jgjg His-
law, Tigranes, king of Armenia. Tigranes, although he had perpd vi.
before neglected to afford him any aid, now refused to deliver chap. vi.
him up. Lucullus, therefore, carried the war into Armenia. ^*^v-^^
At Tigranocerta, and Artaxata, the army of Lucullus obtained ©9-
victories over the allied forces of these kings j but a mutiny ™certjl~
among the Roman soldiers embarrassed his movements, and ©§.
enabled Mithridates to recover his strength. ^ata*
2. A party adverse to Lucullus had arisen in Rome. Pompey Loss of the
had been successful in the war in Spain ; he had conquered the loolwo^foot
pirates of Cilicia and Isauria, and now was gratified by being 55,6oo horse.'
sent, with an army of 30,000, to supersede Lucullus, and thus
have the glory of being opposed to Mithridates, the most power-
ful and able general with whom the Romans had contended Pompey in
since the days of Hannibal. With the aid of Tigranes, he had the East.
already reconquered most of his territories. His policy was U
avoid a general battle, but to hover near the Romans, and by in-
tercepting their convoys, to distress and reduce them.
3. Pompey felt the effects of these measures, and departed
from Pontus into Armenia, determined to reduce that province,
or force Mithridates to battle, in order to relieve it. Mithri-
dates followed with his army. Pompey, failing to draw him ««
into an engagement, besieged him in his camp for fifty days. jveartheEU-
Mithridates, reduced to distress, at dead of night attacked the P^^^f s'
Roman guards, broke through their entrenchments, and gained Pompey to-
the open country. Pompey pursued, and finding unguarded Mandates
passes, sent detachments, which secretly gained commanding .and
positions in the rear of the Pontians. He then surprised thei* i^ia-neB-
camp at night. Thus surrounded, they suffered a total defeat.
Mithridates escaped with 800 horse ; but even this remnant of
his army forsook him and fled. With only his wife, his daugh-
ter, and one officer, he sought the court of Tigranes, who now
refused him a shelter ; and he pursued his melancholy way till
he found a home among the more generous Scythians.
4. Pompey made Tigranes, by treaty, a Roman ally, in other
words, a Roman subject. He then went northward in pursuit
of Mithridates. After two years of war with the Scythians and ©4. 63.
hardship to his troops, getting no clue to the abode of his un- maSthe
fortunate enemy, Pompey retraced his course to Pontus, and Romans mas-
reduced those places which remained faithful to the absent ^Lmtni
monarch. After these victories, Pompey received the submis- Judma.
sion of twelve kings. He then carried his arms into Syria, con-
quered Judcea, and penetrated to Arabia.
5. After Pompey's departure, Mithridates issued from his con-
cealment, and appearing in Pontus at the head of an army, made
Chapter VI. — 1 . How did Lucullus conduct the second Mithridatic war?— .
%. What is said of Pompey? What of Mithridates? — 3. Give an account of the
movements of the contending parties. What did Mithridates after the battle ?
—4. What was done by Pompey in respect to Tigranes ? How did he next
extend the Roman power ? — 5. Give an account of the third Mithridatic war.
What did Pharnaces become ? What was done in Rome on Pompey's return?
126
THE FIRST TRIUMVIRATE.
Jlncient His.
PERPD VI.
CHAP. VI.
man power
over Pontus.
64.
Conspiracy
of Catiline
defeated by
Cicero and
Cato.
©©.
First Trium-
virate under
Caesar, Pom-
pey, and
Crassus.
54.
Crassus pro-
ceeds to-
wards Par-
thia. He sa-
crilegiously
plunders the
Jewish
temple.
himself master of several important places. But his officers
mutinied, and in vain he asked the aid of the Scythians. His
son Pharnaces, availing himself of the disaffection of the army,
proclaimed himself king. Mithridates, in despair, committed
suicide. Pompey, after declaring Pharnaces an ally to the Ro-
mans, returned to Italy. Rome rejoiced in his success, and on
the proposal of Cicero, the greatest of Roman orators, twelve
days were set apart for thanksgiving to the gods.
6. On his arrival in Italy, Pompey disbanded his army, to the
great joy of the senate, who feared he would retain it, and after
the examples of Marius and Sylla, make himself absolute in
power. Rome was however unquiet. Cataline and his asso-
ciates had formed a horrible conspiracy. Their intention was to
extirpate the Roman senate, plunder the treasury, and set Rome
on fire. Through the eloquence and patriotism of Cicero,
thence called the " father of his country," aided by the honest
and philosophical Cato, the dreadful plot was detected, and
the conspirators punished.
7. But the master spirit of the times was Julius Caesar, who
had just returned from a successful war in Spain. Concealing
his boundless ambition, he was now at Rome, paying court to
the ladies, and acting the intriguing demagogue. Crassus, by
assuming popular manners, by increasing his great wealth, and
by constantly making himself useful by his money, to those
who needed his aid, had, with far inferior talents, acquired
power and influence in Rome equal to those of either Caesar or
Pompey. Crassus and Pompey were at variance. Caesar art-
fully reconciled them, and the three formed a union, dividing
between themselves, under the nrnne of the triumvirate, the
supreme power of the commonwealth. Caesar, at his desire, was
appointed to undertake an expedition against the Gauls. He be-
lieved that in the five years allotted to him, he would be able to
form and discipline an army, which would put within his reach
the absolute power at which he aimed. The succeeding year,
Crassus was to govern Asia, while Pompey remained at Rome
at the head of the affairs of Italy, Africa, and Spain.
8. A treaty with Parthia had been entered into by Lucullus,
and renewed by Pompey, the terms of which that nation had
faithfully kept. But Crassus, wishing to increase his wealth,
and to equal the military fame of his rivals, undertook against
the Parthians an unprovoked and unrighteous war. At the head
of the Roman legions, he passed through Syria and Judaea,
plundered the temple at Jerusalem, crossed the Euphrates, and
reduced many towns of Mesopotamia,
6. How did Pompey recommend himself to the Roman senate ? Give
an account of the horrible conspiracy which had been formed. To whom
was its detection and punishment owing? — T. Who was, however, the
masterspirit? What appearance did he now put on? How did Crassus
become powerful? Who and w hat was the first triumvirate? How did
the three divide the Roman power between them ? — 8. What right had the
Romans to attack the Parthians? What sacrilege was committed by
Crassus ?
a snare.
THE PARTHIANS DESTROY A ROMAN ARMY. 12?
9. The Parthians rose in arms, and while Crassus with his army indent His.
was in winter quarters, they retook the places which he had con- perpd vi.
quered. When he recommenced his march, they provided him chap. vi.
with an artful adviser in Ariamnes, a wily Arabian chief, to ^-v-^^
whom Crassus gave ear, caught by his great pretences of friend- Hfi fa,ls imo
ship and gratitude to the Romans, for services rendered his fa-
ther. Deaf to the remonstrances .of Caius Cassius, an able
general, and of other officers and friends, who knew the Par-
thian mode of warfare, he persisted in keeping the open plains
of Mesopotamia. For some time the march of the army was
through a fertile and well watered country, where the wants of
the soldiers were easily and fully supplied. Soon, however,
the scene changed, and they entered upon dry and sandy plains,
where neither stream, nor tree, nor plant, appeared. A hostile
army lurked all around them, and now sure of their prey,
openly attacked them. The Romans fought bravely, but in ^ckeTb
vain ; whether advancing, or retreating, the discharge of the the Par- y
Parthian arrows was equally effective. The army of Crassus, ^Jotf"*1
surrounded on all sides, was reduced to the greatest extremity ;
a large division was totally defeated ; and his son, who com-
manded it, slain.
10. Crassus effected a retreat, and threw himself into Charrce:
thither he was pursued by Surena, the. Parthian general, and 53.
fearful of an assault, he determined, unknown to the inhabitants, ^aules!0
to leave the city. His design was discovered by Surena, and Roman loss,
again a guide was suborned, who led him into marshes, where Pris. 10,006.
he was overtaken and finally slain. Of all his army, only 500
horse, under the command of Cassius, escaped.
11. C^sar had at first received the government of Gaul for
five years, but at their expiration, he was involved in wars with 55,
the barbarians, and other five years were added to the time. Jninw cae-
During this period, his daring achievements, his adventurous obtammg
spirit, his personal toils and exposures, exhibited military ta- paul-
lents equal, if not superior, to those of Alexander, and of Han- talents!
nibal. To these he added, what neither of them possessed, the
polish of the finished scholar. The commanding powers of
language were his, whether he chose to exert them in speaking
or in writing. He had in his youth pursued his education in "education
Greece, whither Cicero, Cato, and other eminent orators, at this nlvSsk
golden period of Roman eloquence, resorted for instruction; the Romans.
Romans thus ceding the nobler palm of the arts of peace, to
;he nation whom they had mastered in war.
12. The expeditions of Caesar brought to the notice of the
Romans, places which they had not before known. Thus they
connect with him, even us, the Anglo-Americans. By Julius
Ccesar the Romans were first led to Britain, the land of our
progenitors. The language he spoke became in part incorpo-
9. Relate the history of his march, and observe whether he prospered ? —
IO. How did Crassus finally meet his doom ? — 11. What did Caesar at this
ume ? How did Caesar excel Alexander and Hannibal ? Where did he go
for his education ? In what respects did the Romans cede to the Grecians ?
Greece re-
sorted to for
128 POMPEY AND CiESAR.
Ancient His. rated with that of the native barbarians, when his countrymen.
peri'D vi. following his footsteps, subjugated the island ; and this mingled
chap. vii. language, farther modified by the Saxon and Norman French, is
v-a^v-"^ that which our mothers taught us in our cradles. Caesar twice
Cjesar visits invaded Britain. In his sanguinary course, he enlarged the
Vnvades bounds of the Roman empire in Gaul, and found tribes, of new
Germany. an(j singular appearance. He also invaded Germany, and had
bloody battles with its wandering natives, who were distin-
guished by peculiar customs. They dwelt not in cities, and they
paid religious veneration to women.
CHAPTER VII.
Rome the prey of ambitious citizens.
First trium-
virate dis
1. On the death of Crassus, the first triumvirate was dissolved,
and Pompey and Caesar were left to contend for the supremacy.
Julia, the amiable daughter of Caesar, whom he had given in
solved, marriage to Pompey, had proved a bond of union between these
two ambitious spirits ; but she was now dead, and Pompey mar-
ried Cornelia,* of the family of the Scipios, and the widow of
Cffisar and tne son °f Crassus. Animosities between them, fatal to the
Pompey peace of Rome, were now beginning to appear, which Cicero
vainly attempted to reconcile. Pompey enlisted the senate and
the people on his side. Caesar, on the other hand, was the idol
of his veteran army.
2. Pompey obtained a decree from the senate, commanding
^Q Caesar to disband his troops ; and Mark Antony, a tribune, fled
Caesar com- to Caesar's camp at Ravenna, with the news. To obey the
T&h™H £?«, mandate, would be to put himself in the power of his rival. To
disband his ' .::•,•. r - .. . r . . , T ,
army. advance with his army, and pass the river Rubicon, the bound-
* Cornelia, was beautiful, amiable, well versed in polite literature,
played the lute, and was also acquainted with geometry and philosophy.
The condition of women among the ancients was, however, degrading.
Their fathers or brothers, without consulting their affections, gave them in
marriage, as it suited their own ambitious purposes. When Caesar wished
for a political connexion with Pompey, Julia, who was on the eve of a mar-
riage to another, must be given to him. Formerly, when Sylla wished for
the same connexion, he took his step-daughter, Emilia, from her husband,
and obliged the young Pompey to divorce his first wife Anstitia, and marry
her. Men divorced their wives at pleasure. Even Cicero, in his old age,
divorced Terentia, the mother of Tullia, for whose death he mourned so im-
moderately, and married a young heiress, who was his ward. Men, as fa-
thers, have been more generally just to women, than as husbands.
12. The English language which we speak is partly derived from the
Latin — Can you tell how it became so ? What are you told of Caesar's in-
vasion of Britain, and of Germany ?
Chap. VII.— 1. How was the first triumvirate dissolved? Whom had
Pompey on his side ? Whom had Caesar? — 2. What decree did the senate
pass ? How did Caesar hear of it ?
CffiSAR DICTATOR. 129
ary of his province, would be setting at defiance the power of indent m*.
the senate. Taking 6,000 soldiers, he advanced with an agitated perpd vi.
mind, paused all night, riding to and fro, on the brink of the in- chap. vii.
terdicted stream, then, at dawn, he dashed forward, and as he v-*'~N^>w
passed, he exclaimed, " the die is cast." The celerity of his
movements surprised his enemies. Pompey, not being in force to 49.
meet him, fled from Rome, first to Capua, and afterwards to Casar passes
Brundusium. Caesar, by the departure of Pompey, was left in the Rubuon-
possession of Italy, and soon entered Rome. Collecting the
members of the senate, he attempted to justify his conduct, and
made proposals of peace, while, at the same time, he continued
his preparations for war. To facilitate these, he entered the
treasury, and took an immense sum, telling the tribune who op-
posed him, and plead the violated rights of his country, that
"arms and laws did not flourish together."
3. Appointing lieutenants over the different provinces, with
legions at their command, and leaving Mark Antony com-
mander-in-chief in Italy, he proceeded in person to reduce Spain ; reduces
where the army was in the interest of Pompey. Having, with Spain,
great hazard, effected this, he returned to Rome, leaving one of
his lieutenants to command in Spain. The patriotic citizens of
Rome knew not how to act. Cicero said, "Caesar is the abler The citizens
man, but Pompey has the better cause." Believing thus, he and musttneJroose
most of the senators, magistrates, and distinguished citizens, left master.
Rome to follow the fortunes of Pompey.
4. Caesar assembled his friends and the citizens which re-
mained 5 and the praetor, Lepidus, nominated him dictator, He c^sar
htld the office but eleven days, during which he made some dictator,
improvements in the government. He filled the vacant offices
with his friends. Himself and one of his partisans he procured
to be appointed consuls. He next invested Pompey's forces in
Brundusium; but he escaping the snare, crossed the Adriatic into
Greece. Caesar embarked from Brundusium with a part of his
army, leaving the remainder under Antony, to follow ; but their
delay, and the danger of their being intercepted by Pompey's Cssar foi-
fleet, induced him to make overtures for peace. They were re- lows Pom~
7 _■■ . ~ . . , , x _ J ' ' ■ . pey across
jected. Caesar, impatient to learn the cause of Antony's delay, the Adriatic
attempted to cross the strait in a fishing boat, telling the master,
affrighted by a storm, " Fear not, thou earnest Caesar and his
fortune." Mark Antony having arrived with the remainder of
his troops, Caesar besieged his rival in camp at Dyrrhachium.
But Pompey forced him from his position with loss; then, as
Caesar retreated, he followed him into Macedonia.
5. Pompey's army far exceeded Caesar's in number : and in
his camp were almost all the friends of Roman liberty — Cicero,
Cato, and his son-in-law, the patriotic Brutus. The two ar-
mies were drawn up on the memorable plain of Pharsalia.
58. Give the history of Caesar's movements ? — 3. What were Caesar's next,
measures ? What course did the most patriotic Romans now take ? Where
did they go, being with Pompey? — 4. What were Caesar's measures?
What was done at Brundusium ? What at Dyrrhachium ?
17
130
THE FALL OF POMPEY.
Ancient His.
PERPD VI.
CHAP. VII.
48.
July 20.
PHARSA-
LIA.
Caesar de-
feats Pom-
pey. Loss
of the
vanquished,
k. 15,000,
pris. 24,000.
The fate of
Pompey.
Ingratitude
of Ptolemy.
Grief of
Cornelia.
Cffisar es-
pouses the
cause of
Cleopatra.
Death of
Ptolemy.
They who had sat together in council, shared the same social
repast; perchance, drawn their infant sustenance from the same
maternal breast, joined in unholy strife. Pompey fought his
country's children, not as he had fought her foes; and Caesar
was victorious. As soon as Pompey perceived that his cavalry
were defeated, he retired to his camp in despair, and sat down.
When the whole army was routed, and he was informed that
Caesar was approaching to storm the intrenchments, he ex-
claimed, " in my camp too," and laying aside the insignia of
office, he prepared for flight.
6. Pompey, now a wretched fugitive, passed by Larissa, and
in the vale of Tempe, he who could so lately command the at-
tendance of suppliant thousands, prostrated himself to taste the
running stream, and was glad to rest his wearied limbs in a
fisherman's hut. In the morning he embarked on the Peneus
in a small boat: but coming up with a ship of burden com-
manded by a Roman, he was welcomed and carried to Mity-
lene, where the affectionate Cornelia, expecting her husband as
the master of the world, was told that if she wished to see Pom-
pey with one ship, and that not his own, she must hasten
When she approached, he ran and caught her in his arms, as
she was falling in a fainting fit. Yet it Was her husband's fate,
and not her own, that affected her ; and she ingeniously sought
to blame herself for his ill-fortune.
7. With one small galley, they embarked for Egypt, to seek
the protection of Ptolemy. On their arrival at Alexandria, the
base counsellors of the young king advised him to assassinate
Pompey, in order to obtain the favor of Caesar. Accordingly, a
boat was sent off to the galley, as if to take him to the city.
Cornelia, looking after him as he moved from her, saw the as-
sassin stab him through the body ; and her shriek of agony was
heard upon the shore. Caesar pursued Pompey to Egyyt ; but
when his head was presented to him, he turned away with ab-
horrence,— wept the fate of his former friend, and caused his
murderers to be punished.
8. The crown of Egypt was in dispute between Ptolemy,
the acknowledged king, and Cleopatra, his sister. The claims
of Ptolemy had been upheld by the Roman senate, and Cleo-
patra banished. To lay her cause before Caesar, she hastened
to Alexandria. Caesar was charmed, as by an enchantress, and
he summoned Ptolemy to appear before him. At the instigation
of his minister, he disregarded the summons, and despatched an
army of 20,000 men to besiege Caesar in Alexandria, who, at-
tended by only 4,000 troops, was in imminent danger. At
length, reinforcements arrived, with which he attacked and car-
ried the camp of Ptolemy ; who, in attempting to escape, was
drowned. Caesar settled the crown upon Cleopatra.
5. Describe the battle of Pharsalia ? What was the loss on the side of
the vanquished ? — 6. What was the course of Pompey after the battle ? —
7. What occurred after he reached the shores of Egypt? — 8. Who was
Cleopatra ? What course did Caesar take to uphold her claim ?
CATO AND HIS LITTLE SENATE. 131
9. The war was closed, but the conqueror lingered. At An™nt His.
length he was aroused by intelligence of the revolt and con- perpd vi.
quests of Pharnaces, the son of Mithridates. According to his chap. vn.
own account, he u went, saw, conquered ;" and having appointed
Mithridates of Pergamus, who had succored him in his distress
at Alexandria, to be the successor of Pharnaces, he embarked
for Italy. He found, on his arrival at Rome, that during his ab-
sence, he had been created dictator for one year, consul for five
years,- and tribune of the people for life.
10. The remaining partisans of Pompey, including several
senators, after their defeat at Pharsalia, passed over to Africa,
under Metellus Scipio, Cato, and Juba, the son of Hiempsal,
who was dutiful to the last to the senate of Rome. The only senate at
independent members of that once august body, now collected Utlca-
in Utica, where Cato presided. Caesar sought them, and de-
feated in battle their military force. Juba and one of his gene-
rals killed each other in despair. Scipio, who commanded the 46-
army, was slain ; and Cato, the most virtuous and patriotic of rel„*tSanti
the Romans, seeing that all hope was lost, having read and destroys the
commented on Plato's work on the immortality of the soul, ^fjJJJSIa*
with philosophic composure committed suicide. Caesar, on his liberty,
return to Rome from this expedition, was honored with a splendid
triumph, which lasted four days ; the people, with base flattery,
hailing him as the father of his country.
11. The sons of Pompey, yet unsubdued, held Spain, and
were in a condition for war. Caesar went thither, conquered,
and returned. He had now triumphed over all his enemies, and
was supreme in Rome. His sway, unlike that of Marius and
Sylla, was mild and equitable ; — liberal to his friends, kind and Cesar's ad-
forgiving to his enemies. He made salutary laws. With the "^SS?"
aid of learned men he reformed the calendar, and thus showed
the advantages of learning in conditions of power. He caused
Carthage and Corinth to be rebuilt, and sent out Roman colo-
nies to repeople them. He planned a war with Parthia, in order
to extend the empire, and to revenge the death of Crassus.
12. Had Caesar been ambitious only, and not vain, had he
been content with the substance of power, without the childish
desire of its show, he might, probably, have lived, and been a 45.
blessing to his country, The constitution had long since been Cfesar, not
subverted by a degenerate people. Rome, without republican with^he
virtues, could not be a republic. It only remained to choose substance of
her master, and doubtless, Caesar was the fittest man. But wounds'the
Caesar wished to be called king, and to wear the insignia of Ro^byhis
royalty, which was galling to the pride of the Romans ; and love of
when Mark Antony and others crowned his statue, and spoke show*
9. Give an account of his expedition to Asia. What honors awaited him
at Rome? — IO. Who were assembled in Utica? What was the fate of
Juba? Of Cato? — 11. Describe the conduct of Caesar as supreme in
power. — 12. What error as a politician did Csesar commit ? If our citi-
zens and rulers cease to have republican virtues, what do you suppose will
be the fate of our republic ?
132
CAESAR MURDERED.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAF. VIII.
Conspiracy
against
Cffisar.
The sooth-
sayer.
44.
15th March.
Casar falls.
Caesar's
achieve-
ment*.
Human de-
struction.
of his coronation, murmurs arose. The thoughtful Cassius, the
envious Cinna, and others, were stirring up a hatred against
him which aimed at his life ; and at length they gained the man
who, since Cato, had more devotion to his country than any
other Roman. This was Marcus Brutus, who had fought
against Caesar at Pharsalia, been pardoned by him, loaded with
favors, and adopted as a son. " Loving Caesar much, he yet
loved Rome more ;" and by a misguided patriotism, he joined
the conspiracy, in which sixty senators were engaged.
13. The ides, or fifteenth of March, was the day appointed
for the execution of the murderous deed. The night preceding,
Calphurnia, the wife of Caesar, was warned in a dream ; and
would fain have persuaded him not to go that day to the senate.
Caesar, as he passed a soothsayer, who had foretold that the
ides of March would be fatal to him, said triumphantly, " The
ides of March are come.'" " But not gone," was the reply. On
account of the alarm Calphurnia's dream had given him, he of-
fered sacrifices before going to the capitol. The omens were
inauspicious, and he thought to adjourn the senate, but one of
the conspirators asked " If he would bid them go, and come
again when Calphurnia had better dreams ?" He then took his
accustomed seat. A friend gave him a paper, containing an ac-
count of the conspiracy, which he desired him to read instantly.
As he held it in his hand, the conspirators pressed around him
with petitions. At length Cinna gave the signal, by pulling his
robe. At the moment, all drew their swords and fell upon him.
He defended himself at first, but seeing Brutus about to strike, he
exclaimed, " And you too, my son !" Then wrapping his man-
tle about his head, he fell, pierced with many wounds.
14. Thus died, in the 56th year of his age, a man, who, it is
said, conquered 300 nations, took 800 cities, and in different
battles, defeated 3,000,000 of men, of whom 1,000,000 were
killed in fight. Great as he was, he was a man of blood, and
in blood he fell.
CHAPTER VIII.
Rome under the second Triumvirate.
™„ •«**. !• The conspirators retired at first to the capitol, but the foh
rators at (owing day they appeared in public, and addressed the people,
firiested!° wno seemed to listen with composure. The senate passed a
155. Describe the conspiracy which was now formed. — 13. Give an ac-
count of Caesar's death. — 14:. How many nations had he conquered?
Cities? How many men were defeated, and how many slain in his wars?
Chap. VIII. — 1. What course was taken by the conspirators after Caesar's
death ?
OCTAVIUS, AFTERWARDS AUGUSTUS. 133
decree, which, though it confirmed the acts of Caesar's dictator- -*Mciew* His-
ship, bestowed such offices upon the conspirators, as might be peri'D vi.
regarded as an approval of their deed. But with misjudging CHAP- vni.
moderation, they permitted Mark Antony, an eloquent man, ^^^y^s^/
whose dangerous character was a singular compound of politi-
cal design and ardent passion, to bring forward the dead body
of Caesar for a public funeral. Antony touched the national
pride of the Romans by enumerating Caesar's achievements, and 4L4.
their sensibilities by declaring his acts of kindness. With the Antony's'
genuine tears of bereaved affection, he showed them "sweet oration at
Caesar's wounds ;" and with the art of the politician read them funeral,
his will, wherein he manifested his love to the Roman people
by bequeathing them money. The deep feelings of sorrow
thus excited by the orator, were artfully turned to rage against
those who wrought his death. The people rose in their mad-
ness ; and the conspirators, to save their lives, fled from Rome. Conspira-
Brutus and Cassius went to Athens, where the Greeks, honoring tors flee*
them for their love of liberty, received them cordially ; and they
applied themselves for a time to the study of philosophy. Bru-
tus had already imbibed from Cato, the sublime devotion to virtue
which characterized the Stoics.
2. Antony had brought the senate into many of his measures.
A new aspirant now appeared in Octavius, grand-nephew to Ju-
lius Caesar, whom he had adopted as his son, giving him the name
of Caesar, and making him his heir. He had been pursuing his
studies in Greece, but on learning his uncle's death, he posted to
Rome. Antony, though at the head of affairs, had neglected to ^ainJKie
pursue the conspirators. He now withheld from Octavius the favor of the
fortune bequeated him by his uncle, that he might not have Pe°Ple-
the means of acquiring popularity. Octavius, seeing his design,
secured the favor of the people, by selling his patrimonial es-
tate to pay Caesar's legacy. Cicero, regarding him as less dan-
gerous than Antony, aided him by his great influence.
3. The senate sent to Antony, who was now in Gaul at the „ cicero.»s
head of an army, certain orders, which he thought proper to influence
disregard ; whereupon they despatched Octavius, with a force to eJJjpl0ynh*m.
reduce him to submission. An engagement took place in Cis-
alpine Gaul., in which Octavius was successful. Lepidus, an octavius
unprincipled man, was in command of an army in Farther Gaul. ^n[onts
To his camp Antony fled, but was ill received by the general.
Feeling his life in danger, he appealed to the army. He was t^rBnuJJjJ
manly and graceful in person, persuasive in speech and manners — affairs of
the friend of Julius Caesar, and he appeared among the soldiers AT£™?d*3nd
in distress. They espoused his cause, and Lepidus now felt
that Antony had become his master.
4. Octavius had the command of the forces of the senate, but
he had suspicions of the attachment of that body to himself, and
1. Give some account of Caesar's funeral. Whither did the conspirators
flee ? What philosophical sect did Brutus belong to ? — 2. Give an account
of Octavius. — 3. Describe his expedition against Antony. What sudden
turn in Antony's affairs occurred ?
134
THE SECOND TRIUMVIRATE.
Ancient His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. Villi
43.
Nov. 27-
The second
Triumvirate,
Octavius,
Antony and
Lepidus.
(Fulvia, the
wife of An-
tony, whom
Cicero had
censured,
took his se-
vered head,
and ran her
bodkin
through his
tongue.
Dec. 7.)
Arsaces
XIV. aids
Brutus and
Cassius.
42.
PHILIPPI.
Brutus and
Cassius
defeated.
41.
Cleopatra's
celebrated
galley sails
up the
Cydnus to
Tarsus.
thought the destruction of Antony would be but a prelude to his
own. When, on making application for the consulship, his suit
was rejected, he no longer hesitated upon his course, but pri-
vately sent to Antony and Lepidus, proposing terms of recon-
ciliation. They gladly embracing his proposals, the three met
on a little island in the Rhine, where, uniting their military force,
they formed the second triumvirate.
5. The first business of this iniquitous league was to make a
proscriptive list, in which each gave up many friends, in order
that the others might agree to the destruction of his enemies.
This bloody catalogue contained the names of three hundred
senators, and two hundred knights. Octavius gave up to the
hatred of Antony, the virtuous Cicero, the friend of his country
and the pride of Roman eloquence. He was pursued and mur-
dered. The estates of the proscribed were seized and given to
their murderers.
6. The triumviri prepared for war with Brutus and Cas-
sius, who by this time had collected a considerable force.
Brutus had travelled into Asia and there made friends. Arsaces
of Parthia gave him aid. Brutus, troubled in mind, one night
while in Asia, saw, or seemed to see, a terrible spectre, who said
" I will meet thee again at Philippi." Said Brutus, " I will meet
thee there." The Roman students at Athens embraced his cause ;
the friends of the commonwealth, and the partisans of the sons
of Pompey, who were still scattered in various parts of the pro-
vinces, flocked to his standard. The hostile armies met at
Philippi, in Macedonia ; and again the thousands of Rome stood
arrayed against each other. The battle was fought bravely.
While Brutus proved victorious over Octavius, Antony com-
pletely routed the troops of Cassius, who, ignorant of the suc-
cess of his colleague, fell upon his sword. Brutus collected
the forces of Cassius, and after twenty days, he ceded ,to the
importunity of his troops, and hazarding another battle, he
was totally defeated. Witnessing the irreparable loss of his
army, and determining not to survive the liberty of his country,
he also committed suicide.
7. On the death of Brutus, the party of the conspirators was
no longer formidable ; and the Roman empire was completely
subjected to the triumviri. ' Octavius returned to Italy, where
Lepidus still remained. Antony went into Asia, where he re-
ceived the homage of its various kings, collected the revenues,
and regulated the affairs of provinces and tributary nations,
as his caprice might dictate. At Tarsus, for some alleged of-
fence, he summoned to appear before him the fascinating queen
of Egypt. Knowing that Antony affected at times to personify
4. What induced Octavius to plan the second triumvirate ? Give an ac-
count of its formation. — 5. What shocking feature had this league ? How
many were proscribed? Whose murder is particularly noticeable? — 6.
Give an account of Brutus. Of what troops was his army composed?
Describe the battle of Philippi. The fate of Brutus. — T. Had the triumviri
still any enemies in the field ?
CLEOPATRA AND OCTAVIA.
135
Bacchus, the god of wine, Cleopatra came to him in the cha-
racter of Venus, sailing up the river Cydnus, in a galley deco-
rated in the perfection of art and elegance. Antony, at her
invitation, came to her galley, and was charmed to his ruin.
He accompanied her, on her return to Alexandria, where, sunk
in effeminacy, he forgot public affairs.
8. Octavius assiduously employed himself in attaching the
veteran troops to his person, and in bringing the whole nation
to regard him as its head. Italy was, however, the scene of
want and misery. Sextus Pompey, who had made himself
master of Sicily, infested the sea with his fleet, and prevented
the importation of corn ; while multitudes of women and child-
ren, deprived by the appropriation of the lands to the soldiers,
of home and subsistence, crowded the temples and the streets.
Multitudes of husbandmen and shepherds flocked to Rome, to
excite the compassion of the conqueror. Among the suppliants,
the poet Virgil alone found favor, and was permitted to retain
his patrimonial estate at Mantua.
9. Antony, roused by the representations of his friends, tore
himself from Egypt, and returned to Italy. Octavius met him,
and by mediation of friends, and mutual policy, they became re-
conciled. In making their bargain, the noble Oct a via, the
sister of Octavius, was given, in the traffic, to be the wife
of the lover of Cleopatra ; and another division of the empire
was made. Octavius took the command in the west ; Antony
in the east ; while to Lepidus was assigned Africa ; and to Sex-
tus Pompey, who had now acquired considerable power, the
Peloponnessus and the islands of the Mediterranean. Difficul-
ties between Antony and Pompey soon arose, which resulted in
the destruction of the latter. Lepidus, thinking this a good op-
portunity of adding Sicily to his possessions, drew upon himself
the indignation of Octavius, who by secret intrigues procured
the desertion of his army, made him prisoner, deprived him of
all authority, and banished him.
10. Antony, by the influence of Octavia, for three or four
years, kept terms with Octavius. He at length undertook to
conduct a war against the Parthian s, at the head of 60,000
foot and 10,000 horse. He marched into Parthia, suffered de-
feats by his imprudence, and retraced his steps, after having lost
one-fourth of his army. Influenced by his blind passion for
Cleopatra, he hastened to Egypt, which again became the scene
of his dissipation and folly. He bestowed on Cleopatra and
her children, first Phoenicia, Cyrene and Cyprus, and afterwards
all Asia from the Mediterranean to the Indus j and the ambitious
queen thought, as was known in Rome, that she should yet
" give law in the capitol."
11. The wrath of Octavius, now sanctioned by the people,
Ancient His-
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. VIII.
Policy of
Octavius.
Miserable
condition of
Italy.
Antony
returns to
Italy.
New divi-
sion of the
empire.
36.
Peath of
Sextus.
Lepidus put
aside by
Octavius.
Antony's
unsuccess-
ful war
against the
Parthians.
8. What was the condition of Italy? What can you say of Virgil ? — 9.
In this paragraph four principal actors are mentioned — tell what was done
by each — 1st, Octavius ; 2d, Antony ; 3d, Lepidus; 4th, Sextus Pompey.
— lO. Trace through the tenth paragraph the course of Antony.
136 ROMAN REPUBLIC ENDS THE EMPIRE BEGINS.
Ancient His was ready to break forth. Octavia had borne to Antony two
peri'd vi. daughters. She had kept his house in patrician hospitality at
chap. vin. Rome, and there entertained his friends ; and although she knew
'v^~vv^*»^ his crimes against herself, had taken to her home and edu-
Antony cated his children by his first wife Fulvia. She now set out
Octavia, di- to visit, and, if possible, to save him. Antony forbade her ap-
a^ndmaJrle's Proacn? publicly divorced her, and married Cleopatra, But
cieopatra. his fall was at hand. Octavius attacked, and totally de-
feated him in a naval engagement, near Actium. Early in
actium. tne action, sixty vessels, which Cleopatra commanded in
octavius person, fled, and Antony immediately followed. His fleet was
Antony^nd easily defeated, and after a few days, his land forces, which had
cieopatra. Deen drawn up on the adjoining shore, surrendered, without
striking a blow.
12. Antony and Cleopatra repaired to Egypt, whither Octa-
vius followed. Antony despairing of his fortunes, and deceived
by a false report of the death of Cleopatra, committed suicide.
Death of Octavius was desirous of conveying her to Rome ; but to pre-
cfeopatra. vent it, she exposed herself to the bite of an asp, which pro-
cured a lethargic death, without disfigurement. When the mes-
senger of the conqueror came to take the celebrated queen to
grace the triumph of his master, he found her elegantly reclined
upon a sofa, — but dead. Of her two maids, one lay dead beside
her, and the other dying. Egypt was from this time a Roman
province.
13. Octavius, on his return to Rome, was hailed with accla-
mations, and flattered by a gorgeous triumph. The obsequious
senate, whose vacancies he now filled with his own creatures,
no longer laid claim to independence ; and Rome henceforth he-
n?wAu"us- came a monarchy. With the recent fate of Julius Caesar before
tus, sole him, he could not but be aware of the dangers with which he
^KSers " was surrounded. He wisely avoided the vain show of power,
the govern- and sought to cover his usurpations by names acceptable to the
wisely, people. At first he called his office the tribunate, and received
it for ten years ; after which it was renewed, and, at length, he
took the titles of Augustus and Emperor. He assiduously courted
the favor of the people, continuing to all the magistrates their
old titles and offices, although the effective power of every of-
fice centred in himself. Counselled by his wise minister, M^ce-
nas, and conversing freely with Virgil and Horace, he became
the framer of salutary laws, and the patron of arts and letters.
14. The world was now in a situation altogether peculiar —
^fwhaTi" different from any thing before or since. The nations were ga-
now the Ro- thered into one. The Roman Empire embraced the best parts of
man mpire. £ur0pe^ A^ia, and Africa. Jts revenues were immense. A great
11. Describe the conduct and ill usage of Octavia. The battle between
Octavius and Antony. — 12. Give a history of Antony's death. Of Cleo-
patra's.— 13. In what respect did Octavius conduct more wisely than his
uncle ? What powers did he exercise ? What titles at length bear ? Who
was his wise minister ? With whom did he converse, and what become ? —
14r. What was peculiar in the situation of the world at this time ?
peace.
THE GREATEST EVENT IN THE COURSE OP TIME. 137
army was kept on foot and distributed in different provinces. J*7tcien* His-
The praetorian and city cohorts, afterwards so powerful and peri'd vi.
dangerous, consisted of 10,000 men, and formed a guard for the chap. vm.
Emperor ; to whose title, the senate now added that of " Father v-^-vv^
of his country," The king of Parthia sent to him the spoils of
the army of Crassus, and the kings of India sought his friend-
ship. The Spanish nation, being now, for the first time, com- u"*™'sal
pletely subdued, and insurrection of the German tribes having
been quelled, the temple of Janus, which was shut only in
profound peace, and which had remained continually open since
the reign of Numa Pompilius, was closed. At this period it *• H- s.
was that the " Desire of all Nations," the " Prince of Peace,"
JESUS CHRIST,
The Savior of men, was born at Bethlehem, in Judaea.
14:. What army was formed within the city of Rome? What was sent
by the king of Parthia to Augustus ? What temple was shut ? How long
had it remained open ? What personage, above all kings and potentates,
now came " to visit the earth in great humility ?"
18
MIDDLE HISTORY.
FROM THE CHRISTIAN ERA TO THE DISCOVERY OF AMERICA.
The Birth of Christ
PERIOD I.
FROM
L>. i OF 3HRIST
THE DIVISION OF
TO
I 395. £
THE ROMAN EMPIRE,
CHAPTER I.
The Roman Empire-
1. The treasures of the world poured into Rome ; and stately Middle Hist.
monuments, splendid buildings, literature and the fine arts, all PERIOD j
marked an age of luxury. But the liberty of the people had be- chap. i.
come extinct. The spirit of the republican institutions had de- v^^-s^^/
parted, and a military despotism had usurped its place. Here Condition of
and there, perhaps, a spark of the old Roman spirit might kindle th|mSfn
in the breast of some solitary patriot, but it was soon smothered.
The memory of the aged carried them back to the scenes of
Middle History. — Period I. — Chap. I. — Point out on the map of the
Roman empire the countries which it included. — 1. What was the condition
of the Roman empire ?
139
140
AUGUSTUS.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. I.
Great
abilities of
Augustus.
30 legions in
the Roman
army.
12,500 made
a legion.
11 legions on
the Danube,
5 on the
Rhine, 1 in
Spain, 3 in
Britain, 2 in
Egypt.
Praetorian
guards,
20,000.
A. D.
9.
Between the
Rhine and
the JVeser.
Herman, a
barbarian
chief,
defeats the
Romans un-
der Varus,
whose loss
is 40,000.
horror which marked the days of Marius and Sylla, while they
knew not freedom, but by history and tradition. The young
thus learned to turn with disgust from the prospect of a renewal
of civil wars, and welcomed peace and quiet, though purchased
by the surrender of the sovereign power into the hands of one
individual.
2. Augustus had a wide grasp of mind, by which he pene-
trated far into consequences. He had industry and observation
to learn for himself the truth of the circumstances and charac-
ters which surrounded him ; and he was as prompt to do, as he
was quick to know. Hence he presents the sublime specta-
cle of one mind, ruling and reducing to order, a vast scene of
chaos, such as was the Roman empire at his elevation.
3. The emperor made a new arrangement of the provinces, which
had before been governed by supreme magistrates, commissioned
by the Roman people, and named praetors. He now divided
between the senate and himself the authority over the whole
empire. But in order to keep in his own hands the entire
power over the army, he took as his share, all the foreign pro-
vinces, and left to the senate the Italian states. These they
ruled by proconsuls, with only civil authority. Augustus
governed the remainder of the empire, by dividing his army of
400,000 men, and stationing them in such provinces as he chose,
under generals of his own appointing, who were dictators, each
in his province. The camps of these standing armies were
often chosen in the valleys of the great rivers, and they soon
became cities. The fleet was manned by 50,000 men, and these
were easily transported from place to place at the emperor's
pleasure. He instituted as his own guard, ten cohorts of 1,000
soldiers each, who were called the praetorians ; and this number
he soon doubled.
4. The policy of Augustus inclined him to peaceful measures,
and he wisely considered the danger of extending the empire.
His tranquillity was, however, disturbed by a disastrous war
in Germany, in which Varus, his general, suffered a signal de-
feat. To establish his authority, and secure the succession in
his family, he associated with him in the government, Marcel-
lus, the son of his excellent sister Octavia, by her first marriage,
to whom he gave for a wife, Julia, his only child. Marcellus
dying, Julia was bestowed on Agrippa, (a general to whom Au-
gustus owed important military successes ;) when she became
the mother of two sons and three daughters. She was a pro-
fligate woman, and Augustus, whose own moral character was
2. What in regard to abilities was the character of Augustus ? — 3. What
new arrangement did he make respecting the provinces ? — How did the
senate rule the Italian states ? How did the emperor govern the remainder ?
What numbers were in the Roman standing army ? The navy ? What
number constituted a legion ? (See note.) How many legions were there,
and how distributed ? Give an account of the praetorian guard. — 4:. To
what did the policy of the emperor incline him ? What disturbed him ?
Who was Marcellus ? Julia? Agrippa?
MORAL DARKNESS.
141
not good, was at length obliged to banish her from his court.* Middle Hist,
He had married Livia, the mother of two sons, Drusus and Ti- period i
berius. The former, recovering the German provinces, received chap. i.
the name of Germanic us. Livia was unprincipled, artful and in- v^-v-'w
triguing. Having great influence over Augustus, she secretly
sought to elevate her own sons above the members of his family.
5. Augustus associated Tiberius with himself in the adminis-
tration of the empire, but required him to adopt Germanicus,
the son of his brother Drusus Germanicus, now dead. These
things being done, Augustus died in the deep secrecy of the
palace. The manner and exact time of his death are unknown ;
the circumstances were, however, such as gave rise to suspi-
cions, that he was poisoned by Livia.
6. Tiberius, who, at the death of Augustus, was in possession
of the imperial power, though an able general, was a hypocri-
tical, sensual, and cruel tyrant. Yet at first he dissembled, and
appeared to govern with moderation ; but the mask soon drop-
ped. The fame of Germanicus, who, at the death of Augustus,
commanded in Gaul, excited his jealousy. He was recalled,
and transferred to the command of Syria, where Tiberius pro-
cured his death by poison. Livia enjoyed but little the eleva-
tion of her favorite son. He was jealous of her power, dreaded
her genius, treated her with neglect ; and when she died, he
denied her funeral honors.
7. He removed his court from Rome to the island of Capreae;
but in the midst of brutish sensuality and continual intoxication,
he kept, as it were, a demoniac eye on the affairs of Rome ; —
knew every thing which passed ; detected every conspiracy ; and
while the companions of his vices were quaffing with him the
cup of intoxication, he, perhaps, was plotting, with impenetra-
ble dissimulation, to destroy them. Conspicuous virtue was a
mark for vengeance. Fearing the friends of those he destroyed,
he removed them also. Even the mother's mourning for her
slaughtered son was in his eyes a crime deserving death. The
senate, to whom he transferred all the political rights of the
people, had become degraded, and thus obsequiously sanctioned
his acts, and offered the incense of perpetual flattery, to the man
who filled their streets with blood. It was under the adminis-
Profligacy
and in-
trigues of
the palace.
14.
Death of
Augustus.
(Tiberius
marries
Julia, wi-
dowed
daughter of
Augustus,
and starves
her to
death.)
31.
(Tiberius
detects the
conspiracy
of his favor-
ite Sejanus,
and puts him
to death.)
The senate's
power
annihilated.
* The female character in Rome, as well as that of the men, had become
profligate in the most shameful degree. Augustus, in the conduct of his
daughter, was justly punished for his own sensual crimes. Becoming ena-
mored of Livia, the wife of another man, in order to marry her, he divorced
Scribonia, the mother of Julia. Three months after this marriage, Tibe-
rius, the son of her first husband, was born.
1c. What was the character of Livia? Who were her sons?— -5. Who
was Germanicus ? What account can you give of the death of Augustus ? —
6. Give an account of the beginning of the reign of Tiberius. How did he
treat Livia? — T. Did he while at Capreae understand the affairs of Rome?
Was it bad citizens whom he destroyed, and real crimes which he pun-
ished ? What had he done to gratify the senate ? What was at this time
their character and condition ?
142
TIME OF THE CRUCIFIXION.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD 1
CHAP. I.
3T
Death of Ti-
berius and
and acces-
sion of
Caligula.
41.
(Claudius is
ruled by
Messalina,
his infa-
mous wife,
and after her
death by
Agrippina
his new
wife, the
mother of
Nero.)
54.
(Agrippina
murders
Claudius to
make way
for her son
Nero, who
kills her.)
64.
First perse-
cution of the
Christians.
(Nero mur-
ders the re-
maining
members of
the family of
Caesar, and
finally him-
self, the last
of the race,
June 11.)
68.
tration of this most debased of men, that our Lord Jesus
Christ was crucified in Judea,
8. Tiberius adopted Caligula, the son of the good Ger-
manicus, but not the heir of his virtues ; and said he raised " a
serpent for Rome, and a Phaeton to burn the rest of the world."
Caligula, eager to obtain the imperial dignity, was declared em-
peror, while Tiberius was supposed to be in the agonies of
death. But the tyrant opening his eyes, the party of Caligula
threw the bed-clothes over his head, and stifled the reviving
spark of existence.
9. Caligula wished that " the Roman people had but one
neck, that he might despatch them at a blow." His conduct ac-
corded with the disposition here expressed. After a reign of
nearly five years, he was murdered, and the stupid Claudius,
the brother of Germanicus, was raised by the praetorian cohorts
to the imperial throne. Although vice pervaded the capital,
there were able generals abroad, and victory crowned the arms
of the legions, especially in the wars with the Parthians and
Britons.
10. Nero, whose very name is used to signify all that is base
and cruel, was raised to the empire. On his first accession, he
revived the hopes of the people, by giving promise of a just and
peaceful reign ; but the illusion was soon dissipated, and the
murder of his tutor, the philosopher Seneca, his brother, his
wife, and his mother, displayed the relentless tyranny of his
character. He gave loose to the most licentious passions ; and
subserviency to his pleasures proved the only passport to his
favor. Professing himself a .patron of the fine arts, he aspired
to the character of a poet, and degraded the dignity of the em-
pire by appearing as a public actor on the stage. The discovery
of repeated conspiracies, increased his maliciousness and jea-
lousy. The city presented a scene of blood, and funerals
darkened the streets.
11. The Christians, who had now become numerous in
Rome, were the peculiar objects of his hatred. To amuse him-
self with such a spectacle as Homer related in the burning of
Troy, he caused Rome to be set on fire , then charged the crime
upon the Christians, and devised means for their punishment.
While the city was burning, he was engaged in revelry and
dancing. He decorated his person, sang, played the lyre, and
was, in short, the leading coxcomb of his time. He corrupted
the high born youth of Rome, making them the companions of
his revels. Flatterers and sycophants thronged around him ;
and he was pleased when they told him that he was the great-
est of poets, and that his voice was " divine melody." The
8. Give an account of Tiberius' successor. Of the manner of his suc-
cession.— 9. What speech of Caligula shows his character? Who suc-
ceeded him? — lO. Give an account of Nero. — 11. What fact respecting
the Christians now becomes apparent ? On what pretence did Nero seeK
to destroy them? (What may be presumed concerning the character of
the Christians, when such a man as Nero hated them?)
POWER OP THE PRAETORIANS. 143
discovery of a design which he had formed for destroying the MwMejnst.
senate, and again setting fire to the city, produced a general re-
volt The senate aroused and pronounced sentence of death
against him. Different armies named each its own generals
to succeed him. He fled from the capital to a villa owned by
one of his favorites, where he put an end to his life.
12. The whole Roman empire now presented a scene of dis-
cord. The military force, with which Augustus had kept the
world in awe, now, in weaker hands, recoiled upon the mon-
archy. The soldiers had learned their power, and the senate
could only assent to their decisions. In two years, four gene- 69.
rals were successively raised to the sovereignty by their respec- Thenprieto-
tive armies. Three of them were displaced and murdered, rians kin
Galba, the first of these, was commander of the military forces se^up^otho.
in Spain, when, at the age of seventy-three, he was proclaimed
emperor by his legions. The senate confirmed their choice;
and a promised donation to the praetorian cohorts, secured their
concurrence. By parsimoniously withholding the promised do-
native, and attempting to enforce rigid discipline, he alienated
the praetorians. They soon proclaimed Otho, who had com-
manded in Lusitania. A bloody tumult succeeded, in which
Galba and his friends were murdered, and Otho elevated to the
throne.
13. Vitellius, to whom Galba had committed the command
of the German legions, was by them already proclaimed empe-
ror, and was marching towards the capital. His forces met and bedria-
defeated those of Otho, who committed suicide. Vitellius en- VitdiTufde-
tered Rome as a conqueror, and a horrible scene of carnage en- feats otho.
sued. Mean while, the legions of the east declared for Vespa-
sian, who commanded in Judea. Those in Syria, Egypt, and
Illyricum espoused his interest. After a bloody civil war Ves-
pasian was raised to the imperial throne. This proved the
commencement of a new order of things. His authority was
recognized by the senate, and peace and order were restored to
the suffering community. Vespasian directed his earliest efforts 70.
to the regulation of the finances, the enforcement of discipline pro^es'l"
in the army, and the subjection of rebellious provinces. Some g°od sove-
of the Germans and Gauls had united in an attempt to throw off rerlf?ts an?"
the Roman yoke, and the success of their arms spread the ter- restores.
ror of their name even to Rome itself. The generals of Vespa-
sian were at length victorious, and reduced the Germans to
submission.
11. Relate the manner of Nero's death. — 12. What was now the con-
dition of the empire ? Give an account of the first of the generals raised to
be emperor by his army. How did Galba lose the favor of the soldiers?
Give an account of his successor. — 13. Relate the contest between Otho
and Vitellius. By whom was Vitellius succeeded ? Give an account of the
administration of Vespasian.
CHAPTER II.
Rise of Christianity. — Destruction of the Jewish nation.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD]
CHAP. II.
The New
Testament
our charter
and our
chart.
Our Savior
born of the
VirginMary,
4
years be-
fore the vul-
gar era.
B. C.
Herod made
king by
M. Antony.
38.
Flees to
Rome.
3?.
Takes pos-
session of
Judea.
IT-
Rebuilds the
temple.
Cuts off all
the Asmo-
nean family.
Murders the
innocents.
A. D.
29.
John the
Baptist be-
headed.
1. The New Testament is regarded, by the Christian, as the
charter of his everlasting inheritance, and the chart of his course.
Its undesigned coincidences with profane history, form no small
element in the proof of its veracity. It assumes, and truly, as we
know from profane writers, that there existed in Judea, at the
time of our Lord's advent, a strange admixture of authorities,
Roman and Jewish, secular and ecclesiastical. We have seen
who was that " Caesar Augustus," that sent forth his edict and
taxed the world, when she, the most honored of the human
race, was by Providence conducted to a manger in Bethlehem,
that the Son of God and man might be brought forth in that
lowly place, to show that the pomp of this world detracts
from moral grandeur ; whose essence is voluntary suffering, en-
countered not for ourselves, but others.
2. King Herod was the son of Antipater, an Idumean. He
was by Julius Caesar made procurator of Judea, and with him
the sceptre departed, as foretold, from Judah to foreign princes.
Herod, perceiving the greatness of the Roman power, paid his
court to Mark Antony, and was by him raised to power.
The Jews rebelled against him. He fled and took refuge with
the Triumviri at Rome. They received him graciously, and by
the favor of Augustus, he was appointed king ; when he returned
and took possession of Jerusalem and Judea. He built several
cities, rebuilt the temple, and was called by men " the Great ;"
but he was a wretch in cruelty. To cut off' the remaining blood
of the Maccabees, he murdered a beautiful wife, Mariamne, two
sons of his own and hers, — her mother, brother, and grandfa-
ther. This man, of whom the emperor Augustus said, " it is
better to be Herod's swine than his sons," feeling still insecure,
when he heard that a child was bom who was to fill the throne
of David, sent forth his executioners, to whose poniards the
shrieking mothers of Bethlehem were forced to yield their
infants.
3. On the death of Herod, his three sons, Archelaus, Philip
and Herod Antipas, were appointed over different parts of his
kingdom. Herod Antipas beheaded John the Baptist, after
that prophet had fulfilled his mission, by proclaiming that a
new and heavenly kingdom was to be ushered in ; and identi-
Chapter II. — 1. How is the New Testament regarded by Christians?
What forms an element of the proof of its historic truth ? What does it as-
sume in which profane writers agree? What might have been the Divine
purpose in the lowliness of the place in which our Savior was born?
What prophecy was now fulfilled?— 2. Give an account of the parentage of
Herod. What were the steps by which he rose to power ? What his acts
and character ?— 3. What occurred after the death of Herod ? What mis-
sion did John the Baptist fulfil ?
144
CHRISTIANITY. 143
Middle Hist.
fying Jesus, by whom it was to come. After various changes, _
Judea and Samaria were annexed to Syria under procurators, period i.
subordinate to the Syrian governors ; of which Pontius Pilate, chap. ii.
by whom Christ was given up to be crucified, was the fifth, ^^v-^^
He is represented by historians as a cruel man, and an unjust tl%
judge; considering more, what he himself should gain or lose 2SK£ot£
in money, or in popularity, than the right of the case to be de- rat or, a bad
cided. He permitted many cruelties against the innocent, which man"
at length so disturbed the peace of Judea, that complaint was
made to the Romans. He was deposed by Vitellius, and sent
to Rome for trial. Caligula banished him to Gaul, where, in
want and misery, he committed suicide.
4. Although the Jews were, in temporal affairs, under the Ro-
mans, yet, in regard to religion, they sternly maintained their in-
dependence. Their " chief priests and elders," formed an ec-
clesiastical council, with the high-priest at its head. This ?1._
tribunal it was who first accused Christ to Pilate, of a state rofour°n
offence, that of seeking to make himself king in the room of Savior.
Caesar ; and then, with the fatal imprecation, " let his blood be
on us and on our children," they put him to the death of the
cioss for alleged blasphemy, because he declared himself the
Son of God. But, on the third day, he rose from the dead. .
5. His followers, few and unlearned, after seeing him ascend,
obeyed his command, by remaining at Jerusalem till the Holy desJehnet of
Ghost, the promise of the Father, was sent down. A miracu- theHoiy
lous change came over them ; and now the timid and igno- day of°Pen-
rant fishermen of Galilee, who but lately denied their master, or tecost.
forsook him and fled, stood forth before the astonished multi-
tudes, gathered from different nations at Jerusalem, and pro- X^meefa
claimed to each in his own tongue, what they had heard and change.
seen of Him who was the Word of Life manifest in the flesh ;
whom, said Peter to the members of the Jewish Sanhedrim,
" ye have taken, and with wicked hands have crucified and slain,
whom God hath raised up."
6. That he was risen from the dead, the apostles, especially,
Peter and John, proved by wonderful miracles wrought in his
name,* so that many believed. The Jews began to treat the ser- 34.
vants of Christ as they had treated their master. Stephen was ^sSjJ™
stoned. A young man, named Saul, stood by, consenting to his
death. He was of a resolute, determined mind, and thinking to
do God service, he persecuted the church even to strange cities.
To this honest, but erring man, the risen Savior revealed him- Coj^^'sion
self in glorious light. As soon as he knew his Lord's will, he of st. Paul.
was ready to perform it ; and from henceforth we find him more
* The whole book of the "Acts of the Apostles," was once entitled "the
Demonstration of the Resurrection." (See Adam Clark's Commentary.)
3. Give an account of Pontius Pilate, — 4. What was the situation of the
Jews in regard to ecclesiastical affairs? What double dealing course did
the Sanhedrim pursue in regard to their accusation of our Lord? — 5. What
course did the disciples of our Savior pursue after his ascension ? — 6. Relate
the earliest steps in the spread of Christianity.
19
146
THE FIRST PREACHERS OF THE GOSPEL.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. II.
The apostles
made to
know that
the new dis-
pensation
applies to
the Gentiles.
62.
(Martyrdom
ofSt. James.
65.
Martyrdom
of St. Paul
and St.
Peter.)
64.
Gessius
Glorus
causes the
Jews to
rebel.
69.
Titus
besieges
Jerusalem.
abundant in the labors of the gospel, than all the other
apostles.
7. For a time the word was preached only to the Jewish
nation, all others being called Gentiles, and counted by them as
unworthy to hold any intercourse with God's chosen people.
This dispensation was miraculously changed. A devout Ro-
man centurion learned from an angel that his prayers and alms
had ascended, and that he must send for a teacher divinely com-
missioned. When he appeared, Cornelius would have worship-
ped ; but Peter said, " stand up, I also am a man." Cornelius
believed, received the spirit, and was baptized ; and thus the
wall of partition between Jew and Gentile was broken down.
8. After this, St. Paul carried Christianity into Asia Minor,
Greece, and Italy. He, with the other apostles, relinquished all
that makes men love this life ; — went forth suffering stripes, fast-
ings and imprisonments ; every where gentle, no where resist-
ing with violence, not even when death and torture were before
them ; — preaching alike to the rich and the poor, to flee from
the wrath to come, and lay hold on eternal life. Thus was
Christianity established, by men who exulted in the flames of
martyrdom, there finishing their earthly course with joy.
9. Herod Agrippa, the grandson of Herod the Great, received
from Caligula the title of king, and from Claudius the domi-
nions of his grandfather. The Jews, but partially subjected,
proved troublesome to the Romans. An outbreak occurred on
the occasion of an attempt by Caligula, to desecrate the temple
by placing in it his own statue ■ but an open revolt was caused
by the rapacity of Gessius Glorus, who was placed over the
Jews by Nero. Vespasian commanded the Syrian legions,
and obtained repeated victories, at length making himself master
of all their strongholds and fortresses, except Jerusalem. Re-
called to Rome, to accept the imperial purple, he left his son,
Titus, to conduct the war in Judea.
10. He began the siege at the passover, when the Jews, from
every nation, were gathered within the city. They were divided
into three factions, each with the most rancorous hatred of the
others. With the Roman army at their gates, they still continued
the fury of their contentions, their outrages, and murders. Every
part of the city was filled with pollution and massacre. The
religious ceremonies, indeed, were not suspended, but even in
the temple, the blood of the citizens mingled with that of the
sacrifices. Thus " the abomination of desolation," stood in the
holy place, and called down the vengeance of a righteous God.
War without, deadly feud and starving famine within, caused a
7. What did the Jews universally believe respecting other nations ? How
did Christ's followers learn that his religion was not for the Jews alone ? —
8. Into what countries was Christianity introduced and in what manner ?—
9. Mention some particulars concerning " king Agrippa." What was the
temper of the Jews towards the Romans ? What Roman general began the
war ?— lO. Give an account of the measures of his successor ? What was
the condition of the Jews in Jerusalem ?
JERUSALEM DESTROYED. 147
scene of " tribulation such as was not since the beginning of the ■*&<&**« mst.
world, no, nor ever shall be."
11. Titus made the Jews repeated offers of pardon and pro-
tection, on condition of surrender, but they resisted with inflexi-
ble obstinacy. Tacitus, the great Roman historian, remarks,
" that they were misled by an ancient prophecy, which foretold, daughter of
that in this very juncture the power of the east would prevail ^wrote
over the nations, and a race of men would go forth from Judea, his life.)
to extend their dominion over the rest of the world."* The
Christians, when they saw " Jerusalem encompassed with ar-
mies, and a trench cast round about her," remembered the pro-
phetic words of their Lord, and fled to the mountains.
32. The Romans stormed the city — the Jews fighting with
the most determined bravery. The Roman arms obtained no •?©.
advantage in the first assault. In the second, which continued Jerusalem
three days without intermission, a part of the walls were level- by The"3
led, and a portion of the city taken. The Jews, driven from Romans.
one part, retreated to another, and still maintained the fight.
At length the temple alone remained. This, Titus resolved to
save, but the sentence of its destruction had been pronounced
by a higher Power. The Jews crowded into it, and thither the The temple
Romans pursued them. In the dreadful uproar, a soldier threw bunit-
a lighted torch, which caught upon the wood work, — was com-
municated, and soon enveloped in flames the whole of that
beautiful and venerable fabric ; and so complete was its final de-
struction, that " not one stone was left upon another."
13. Josephus, the Jewish historian, estimates the number
which perished during the siege, at eleven hundred thousand, nanfof the
The Jews no longer held the rank of a nation, and Judea was en- Jdee^™ede
tirely subjected to the Roman power.* Its inhabitants have, for and driven
more than seventeen hundred years, been scattered over the face re^olt"^?,)
of the earth, without ever amalgamating with the various nations of Barochaii
with whom they make their residence ; thus constituting one of a star?')
of the strongest proofs of the divine authority of the Holy
Scriptures.
* "Not understanding," observes the historian, that "this referred to
Vespasian and his son Titus." Tacitus, equally blind with the Jews, did
not himself understand that this race of men were to be the heralds of a
peaceful religion, which was destined, in the fulness of time, to spread its
heavenly dominion over the whole earth.
11. What offer did Titus make? Why, according to Tacitus, did they
not accept ? What did the Christians remember and do ? — 12. Give an ac-
count of the final destruction of the city. — 13. What was the number
killed ? What now is the condition of the Jews ?
CHAPTER III.
The Roman Empire.
Middle Hist. 1. Vespasian reigned ten years ; most of which were passed
in tranquillity. He was the first Roman emperor who had died
without violence, unless we except Augustus. Titus, who
was styled " the delight of mankind," succeeded his father, and
sustained the character of a virtuous and beneficent prince. He
is one of the rare instances, in which elevation in rank produces
improvement in virtue. His efforts were directed to the hap-
piness of his people. The zeal with which he engaged in
noble undertakings, may be learned from the regret which he
expressed, when, on reviewing the events of a day, and finding
no good deed performed, he exclaimed, " O my friends, I have
lost a day." His reign of two years was prosperous in all that
depended upon himself, although marked with several disas-
gQ trous events. One of these was the great eruption of Mount
Hercuia- Vesuvius, which desolated a considerable portion of the coun-
Poeumifdd try? and ' buried in ruins Herculaneum, Pompeii, and Stabiae.
stroyed. The elder Pliny, desirous to observe the phenomenon, went so
Th near the crater, as to be destroyed by the volcano. A fire broke
piiny goes out in Rome, which for three days raged with fury, and de-
voteanoand stroyed a great portion of the city ; and a pestilence spread its
fails into the ravages, which in its most destructive period swept from Rome
crater. iq,000 persons in a day. Titus repaired from his treasuries
the loss by fire ; and his kindness and compassion comforted
the hearts of his afflicted people.
2. Domitian, brother of Titus, succeeded him. He was
cruel, frivolous, and blasphemously vain ; causing himself to be
81. styled God and Lord. He once assembled the senate to debate
Domitian. on the question, in what utensil it was best that a certain fish
should be dressed. Once, in mockery, he invited the senate to
a feast; and when arrived at the palace, they were by his order
conducted to a gloomy subterraneous hall, lighted by dim tapers —
His cruelty hung with black, and provided with coffins, on one of which, each
and sname- guest saw his own name inscribed. Soldiers with drawn swords
V1 y' came in upon them and threatened their lives. After this, which
the emperor esteemed a good joke, he let them depart. His
chief amusement was catching flies, at which he was very ex-
'thTiastof S Pert- He, however, engaged in war, on an alarming invasion of
the Cssars. the Dacians ; but it was only to buy a shameful peace by a
tribute.
3. BRITAIN. — Julius Caesar found this island inhabited by
forty different nations of the Celtae or Gauls, and partially sub-
Chap. III. — 1. Of what is the emperor Titus a rare instance? How did
he manifest a right disposition ? What disasters occurred in his reign ? — 2.
Give an account of Domitian. — 3. What inhabitants did Julius Caesar find
in Britain ?
148
AGRICOLA CIVILIZES THE BRITONS. 149
clued it. The Romans under Claudius, and Platinus, his gene- Middle Hist.
ral, defeated, in several battles, the natives under Caractacus.
The gallant chief often rallied, but was finally overcome.
Under Nero, Sertorius Paulinus was sent over to complete
the conquest of the island, which he found a difficult under-
taking. He attributed the obstinate valor with which the natives
resisted, to the dark and gloomy superstition by which their 59.
Druid priests enshrouded and governed them. They practised Sertorius
their mysterious rites, sometimes gory with human blood, in
the deep recesses of dark groves, — by huge stones, strangely piled
together. Thus they inspired the feeling of religious awe, and
subjugated the minds of the people ; to whom the Romans did
great service in delivering them from this tyranny over the soul.
Paulinus destroyed the sacred seat of the Druids in the island
of Mona or Anglesea.
4. On his return to Britain* he met queen Boadicea, who hav-
ing been grievously wronged by the Romans, had exerted such
wonderful energy and eloquence, that she had collected, from ^Jjgjj*
different British nations, an army of 250,000. Paulinus defeated Boadicea.
her, and she committed suicide ; when the Romans tarnished ^sojooo?83'
their victory by the cruel slaughter of the vanquished. Ju-
lius Agricola, who was sent to Britain by Vespasian, de-
feated, near the Grampian hills, the brave Galgacus, and
subdued the country to the friths of Clyde and Forth, between ?8-
which he constructed a chain of forts. He civilized the native fends th?"
inhabitants, by persuading them to adopt the costume, language, *gjg g;
and manners of the Romans. Agricola's fame excited the mean tain to its
envy of Domitian, who recalled, and probably poisoned him. ^iJJJjf*
The tyrant fell by a conspiracy, and the whole nation rejoiced.
The senate, — perhaps remembering the graves by which he had
frightened them, would not allow his body to be buried. Quin-
tilian was, at this period, teacher of eloquence in Rome, and
the first who received a public salary. .
5. Nerva, at the age of seventy, succeeded Domitian. He made by-
is distinguished for his amiable and benevolent character. Find- vTrnoi of"
ing the weight of the empire too great for his advanced age, he Bithynia,
associated Trajan in the government, and designated him as Remarkable
his successor. The character of Trajan is one which historians letler re;
1 i- mi..-, i •• ,tv i • j spectin? the
unite m applauding. The wise Plutarch was his preceptor, and christians.)
the younger Pliny, one of the most lovely characters which 98-
Rome has produced, was his intimate friend. Although a war- extgn^santhe
rior, and a conqueror, Trajan governed with moderation and Roman em-
equity; and so established himself in the affections of his sub- plate's?
jects, that it was customary in succeeding times, on the eleva- limits.
3. What was done in the reign of Claudius ? To what did Sertorius as-
cribe the obstinate resistance of the Britons? Where did the Druids prac-
tise their rites? What did the Romans destroy, and wherein did they do
service to the Britons ? — *. What happened on the return of Sertorius Pau-
linus from Mona ? Give an account of Agricola. How did he civilize the
Britons ? What further can you relate of Domitian ? Who was Quintilian ?
— 5. Give some account of Nerva. What illustrious author was said to have
been Trajan's preceptor ? His friend ? What was the character of Trajan ?
150
TRAJAN AND THE ANTONINES.
Middle Hist.
10%
The
Christians
persecuted.
10%
Martyrdom
of Ignatius.
11*.
Trajan dies
at Seleucia,
on his re-
turn from
the east.
Hadrian.
135.
(Judea's
last revolt
and final de-
struction.)
138.
Antoninus
Pius.
Virtue,
peace and
prosperity.
161-
Marcus Au-
relius Anto-
ninus, the
philosopher,
i. e- accord-
ing lo ety-
mology and
ancient
meaning, a
lover of
wisdom.)
tion of an emperor, to wish him " the felicity of Augustus, and
the virtue of Trajan." His military achievements restored the
lustre of the Roman arms. He conquered Dacia, and at the
head of his legions, crossed the Euphrates and Tigris, and re-
duced Mesopotamia to a Roman province. He marched through
tracts of country where the Roman arms had never before been
known, penetrating even to India. On his return, he esta-
blished a king upon the Parthian throne, and appointed lieute-
nants in various provinces.
6. Historians have censured his policy in enlarging the bound-
aries of the empire, and his inhumanity, in persecuting the Chris-
tians, leaves a blot upon his otherwise untarnished fame. He
had made laws against them, ordering that they should be put
to death when found, but should not be sought after. On his
visit to Antioch, the venerable Ignatius, bishop of that city,
presented himself to the emperor, — owned, and vindicated the
faith of Christ. Trajan imprisoned him, and sentenced him to
be thrown to the wild beasts at Rome. Animated with the
prospect of a martyr's crown, he went joyfully thither, and suf-
fered death by the lions of the amphitheatre. Trajan died at
Seleucia.
7. Hadrian, the succeeding emperor, returned to the pacific
policy of Augustus ; and with the exception of Dacia, he even
relinquished the conquests of his predecessor. This, and the
two succeeding reigns, have been pronounced the happiest days
of the Roman empire. The laws of Hadrian were salutary, and
his administration excellent. He secured the future prosperity
of the nation by appointing a worthy successor.
8. This was Titus Antoninus, afterwards surnamecl Pius.
When he ascended the throne, he found the various departments
of government moving on in regularity and order, and the whole
empire in prosperity and peace. His reign of twenty-three
years flowed on in the same calm and happy course. Averse
to war, the circumstances of the state permitted him to indulge
his love of peace ; while his renown for wisdom procured the
admiration of the barbarians, who, in their differences, resorted
to him as arbiter. In his reign, the persecution of the Chris-
tians ceased, and all classes of his subjects reposed in peace,
trusting in the justice of their sovereign.
9. Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, who succeeded Titus in
the imperial government, had acquired, by his attachment to
science, and philosophy, the name of the Philosopher. The
situation of the empire, however, did not permit Aurelius to in-
dulge in his favorite pursuits, or pass his days in contemplative
retirement. The camp required his presence ; for the peace of
5. Give an account of Trajan's administration. — 6. What laws had he
made respecting the Christians ? Give an account of Ignatius. In what
respects has Trajan been censured for impolicy ? For cruelty? — 7. What
was the happiest period of the Roman empire ? What account can you give
of Hadrian ? — 8. What of his successor and the state of the empire ? — 9.
What was the name and character of the successor of Antoninus Pius ?
THE PRAETORIANS SELL THE EMPIRE. 151
the empire was now disturbed in its various borders. In Asia, fjgffg Hist-
the Parthians rebelled against the sovereignty of Rome, as did the period i.
barbarians on the Rhine and the Danube. Aurelius sent his chap. hi.
generals against the Parthians, and in person conducted the war ^-*~v-<«^
against the hordes of the north. The Parthians were defeated, The Empire
i ,,,..., . r • a involved in
and many of their cities taken. After many campaigns, Aure- wars with
lius unhappily fell a victim to the hardships of barbarian ^J^SSi?
warfare.
10. With the reign of Aurelius, the prosperity of the empire
ceased; and from the accession of his son Commodus, its de-
cline may be dated. A more striking contrast never was pre-
sented, than in the characters of the father and son. Aurelius ISO.
had taken him to aid in command against the barbarians 5 and ^"JJ1™'
on his death, despite good advice, Commodus purchased a money to the
peace, that he might give himself up to the voluptuous pleasures to purchase
of Rome. There he became a foul and loathsome debauchee ; Peace-
and, outraging all the honorable feelings of the Romans, he
fought as a gladiator, in public spectacles, for the amusement of
the vulgar.
11. Conspirators put him to death, and raised Pertinax,
prefect of the city, to the imperial throne. The praetorian
guards murmured at the elevation of a man of whose virtue they
were assured, and who, educated in the school of Aurelius, was
little likely to yield to their disorderly demands, or shower 193.
upon them the profuse liberality of Commodus. His attempt to a virtuous
reform the financial system increased their hatred, and in less JJJSJtjecti'
than three months from the time they swore allegiance, a sedi-
tion broke out in the camp. Two or three hundred of the The Pra5to_
guards rushed in arms to the palace, where Pertinax, securely rians offer
relying on his innocence and their oath, was inhumanly mur- l whoever10
dered. A most disgraceful scene succeeded. Returning to the win give
. * 1 v -i ? /. -f» • 1 1 jj 7 them most
camp with the head of Pertinax borne as a trophy, the guards money.
now offered the Roman world to the highest Udder.
12. The wealth of Didius Julianus, a vain and voluptuous
senator, enabled him to meet the demands of the rapacious prae-
torians, who immediately completed the contract, proclaimed
him emperor, took the oath of allegiance, and escorting him to
,i ' ill- -ii • f. "ii* Didius Jul*.
the palace, surrounded him with the ensigns ol imperial dig- anus.
nity. The obsequious senate, though attached to Pertinax,
yielded to the occasion, and ratified the election of the praeto-
rians 5 — but the indignant legions of Britain, of Illyricum, and
Syria, each proclaimed its respective general, as more worthy of
the empire. Severus, who was in Illyricum, at the head of
hardy and disciplined forces, accustomed to contests with the
warlike barbarians of the north, advanced towards Rome. By
his contiguity to Italy, and the celerity of his movements, he
anticipated his rivals, and in sixty-six days from the elevation
9. What disturbances arose ? — 10. Give some account of Commodus. —
11. Of Pertinax. What degrading measure was taken after the death of
Pertinax 1—12. What account can you give of Didius Julianus ?
152
ALEXANDER SEVERUS.
Middle Hist.
The wall of
Severus
made in
Britain.
211.
Caracalla
murders
Geta in the
arms of their
mother, Ju-
lia Domna.
Taxation.
The
provinces
nurmur.
217-
Macrinus.
218.
Helioga-
balus, the
most de-
based of all
the Roman
emperors.
222.
Alexander
Severus.
(He is
carefully
educated by
Julia Mam-
mo, his
discreet
mother.)
of Julianus, without drawing a sword, he was proclaimed em-
peror at Rome. The praetorians abandoned the victim of their
venality ; the senate deposed him, and he was executed like a
common criminal.
13. Four years of civil war succeeded, during which Seve-
rus, with a military talent approaching to that of Julius Ceesar,
triumphed over his rivals ; but he treated them with shocking
cruelty. He degraded and banished those praetorians who had
been engaged in selling the empire. A war with the Caledo-
nians, which he led in person, occupied him in his later years.
To keep out the barbarians from the north, he rebuilt with
stone, a wall which Hadrian had made from Solway Forth to
the mouth of the Tyne. He died at York. His sons, Cara-
calla and Geta, then in Britain, were declared joint emperors.
Caracalla murdered his brother, whom their mother attempting
to save, he wounded her in the arm. He thus obtained sole
possession of the throne. His whole reign was stigmatized by
deeds of blood and infamy.
14. Caracalla extended the Roman citizenship to all the pro-
vinces. The tribute received from the provinces, which Gibbon
estimates at a sum equal to about 100,000,000 of dollars, was
represented by Augustus as not sufficient for the purposes of
government, and he artfully contrived to make the Roman citi-
zens submit to taxation by impost. Succeeding emperors had
increased their burdens ; and Caracalla extended the right of
citizenship, in order to impose on the foreign provinces the
taxation of the citizen, while he failed to relieve them from the
tribute of the stranger. They felt the double burden, and their
discontent was one of the causes of the decline of the empire.
Caracalla was assassinated in Syria, at the instigation of Macri-
nus, praetorian prefect. Macrinus was raised to the throne, but
shortly deposed, and Heliogabalus, a reputed son of Caracalla,
was invested with the sovereignty. His short reign of four
years was one of unmingled infamy. His violent death, the
merited punishment of his crimes, again left the imperial throne
at the disposal of the army.
15. Alexander Severus, the cousin of Heliogabalus, was
invested with the purple. Amiable, just, and humane, his reign
is like a beam of light amidst surrounding darkness. He in-
herited from nature a happy disposition, and a superior intel-
lect, and was educated by a careful mother. Amidst the cor-
rupting influences of regal authority, he was an example of
industry, sobriety, and regularity of life; an elegant scholar, an
affectionate son, a wise statesman, and an able general. He
restored to the senate many of their rights, reduced the tribute
of the provinces, and sought to enforce discipline in the army.
But the military had become too strong for his curbing hand.
13. Give an account of the reign and character of Severus. Of his acts
in Britain. What happened on the death of Severus ? — 14. Why did Ca-
racalla extend the right of citizenship? Who were his successors? — 15.
Give an account of Alexander Severus.
THE ANCIENT PERSIAN MONARCHY REVIVES.
153
Ulpian, the wisest and most beloved of his counsellors, had in-
curred the hatred of the guards, for attempting to bring them to
order. They sought his life, and pursued him to the presence
of the emperor. Alexander commanded, entreated, and covered
his friend with his robe, but the audacious murderers stabbed
him through it.
16. Alexander went into Asia to conduct a war against the
Persians. While he lay at Antioch, a portion of his army
revolted. Appearing in the midst of the infuriated soldiery,
" Be silent," said he, " in the presence of your sovereign."
" Reserve your shouts for the enemy, or I will no longer allow
you to be soldiers." They brandished their swords, and rushed
towards him. " Keep your courage," said he, " for the field of
battle." They persisted in their dangerous demands, and again
he spoke : u Citizens, no longer soldiers, lay down your arms,
and depart to your respective habitations." The boisterous ele-
ments of sedition sunk into grief and shame, and the soldiers
obeyed. After a time he restored their arms ; and this legion,
ever after, were devoted to his interest.
17. The ancient monarchy of Persia had at this period re-
vived, under a chief named Artaxerx.es. Repeated, and long-
continued wars with the Romans, had weakened the Parthian
power. Of this, Artaxerxes availed himself, to produce a gene-
ral revolt of the Persians. A bloody battle ensued, in which
Artabanus, the Parthian king, was defeated, and the Persians
restored to the sovereignty of the east. Claiming all Lesser Asia
as the successor of Cyrus, the Persian monarch came into col-
lision with the Roman empire. The event of the war was, at
least, so far unsuccessful to the Romans, that Artaxerxes re-
tained the countries which he had conquered. Hardly had
Alexander returned from the Persian war, before he went
north to encounter a vast swarm of barbarians, who threatened
to overwhelm the empire. In his camp on the banks of the
Rhine, while successfully pursuing the war, this prince, too
good for the age in which he lived, fell, with his mother, a vic-
tim to another mutiny of the soldiers, fomented by Maximinus,
an ambitious aspirant to the throne.
18. Maximinus was born in Thrace. His father was a
Goth, and his mother an Alan. Thirty-two years before, Seve-
rus, halting his army in Thrace, to celebrate games at wrestling,
the young barbarian, Maximinus, of the gigantic height of eight
feet, and of size and strength in proportion, presented himself,
and, in a rude d'alect, asked to be admitted as a competitor. His
prodigious exploits astonished the emperor ; and he permitted
him to enlist as a common soldier. From thence he rose by
degrees, till he attained a high command in the army. But
without gratitude or mercy, he had nothing but brute force to
Middle Hist.
Alexander's
dignity and
presence of
mind.
226.
Revival of
the ancient
Persian mo-
narchy
under the
Sassanides.
Artabanus,
the same aa
Arsaces
xxx.
Romans at
war with
the Per-
sians.
War with
the Ger-
mans.
Death of
Alexander
Severus.
235.
Maximinus
the Gothic
giant.
15. What example is given of the lawless insolence of the soldiers ? — 16.
On what occasion of revolt did Alexander curb them with dignity? — IT.
What is here said of Persia ? In what wars was Alexander Severus en-
gaged?— 18. Give an account of Maximinus.
Maximinus,
154 CIVIL WARS.
Middle Hist, recommend him. He persuaded the soldiers that Alexander was
_ effeminate. They slew him, and proclaimed the barbarian em-
peror. He was suspicious of contempt from the well-born and
learned, and he hated and destroyed them. The senate refused
to sanction the nomination of the army ; and though Maximums
continued the German war with success, his cruelties created
disaffection, which, when he made the taxes of the provinces in-
tolerable, broke into revolt.
19. In Africa, the proconsul, Gordian, a man of eminent vir-
tues, was, together with his son, proclaimed emperor ; and the
Gordian'and election was ratified by the senate. The governor of Mauritania
(soonsTam,) espoused the cause of Maximinus, attacked and defeated the
Maximus' Gordians, who both perished in battle. The senate, desperate
nus, an* em- on hearing this, nominated two of their own number, Maximus
perorsatthe an(j Balbinus. The news of these proceedings roused Maxi-
minus to fury. At the head of his legions, and breathing ven-
geance on his foes, he advanced upon Italy : but here he found
a wasted and desolated country. By the care of the senate, all
Death of provision and forage, and all the inhabitants were removed. He
Maximinus. laid siege to Aquileia. His army, suffering from fatigue and fa-
mine, became mutinous 5 a conspiracy was formed, and the bar-
barian was slain in his tent. The virtuous reign of Maximus
and Balbinus was short and insecure. The nation, indeed, re-
joiced in the destruction of Maximinus ; they undertook re-
Death of formation, but the real sovereigns of the Roman empire, the
Maximus praetorian guards, were refractory, and declared they would not
Baibkms. acquiesce in any choice made by the senate. They slew Maxi-
mus and Balbinus, and proclaimed young Gordian, a descend-
ant of one of those who fell in Africa.
20. In the east, the Persians continued to encroach upon the
empire, and had already invaded Mesopotamia. Gordian marched
against them, and had compelled them to retreat from the Ti-
244. gris, when his sudden death checked the progress of the Roman
SesTo^To arms. Philip, an artful Arabian, who by his abilities had risen
the death of to j,e prefect of Rome, was immediately proclaimed emperor by
benefactor!) the army. The Pannonian legions revolted, and invested their
general, Decius, with the purple. The rival emperors met in
quersPhMp" battle at Verona, where victory declared for Decius • and Philip,
after a reign of five years, lost his crown and his life.
19. Give an account of the Gordians, father and son. Whom did the
senate proclaim ? What was the fate of the Gothic giant? What part was
taken by the praetorian guards ? Who succeeded Maximus and Balbinus ?
— 20. What was done by Gordian ? What can you say of Philip ?
Persian
war.
CHAPTER IV.
Decline of the Roman Empire.
1. The Goths, supposed to come from the Scandinavian re-
gion, now, for the first time, poured down upon the empire.
Crossing the Danube, they entered Thrace, and spread devasta-
tion and ruin on all sides. Decius marched against them, and
after a struggle of two years, this monarch, worthy of better
times, perished in battle. Gallus, his general, was made em-
peror. He purchased a peace with the barbarians, that he
might return to the ease and luxury of the palace, — thus reveal-
ing the weakness and the wealth of the empire, and taking the
surest course to incite other invasions, Nor did the hardy and
rapacious barbarians linger long ; and while the Goths and other
hordes made attacks on the north, Persia menaced Syria and
the other provinces in the east.
2. jEmilianus, one of the generals of Gallus, routed the
Goths and pursued them beyond the Danube. His praise was
every where heard, while Gallus was despised. So strong is
ambition hi man, that JEmilianus coveted the imperial purple,
stained as it was with the blood of so many emperors, and worn
but as a prelude to assassination. He was proclaimed by his
troops, and met the army of Gallus at Spoletto. The soldiers of
the emperor mutinied, murdered him, and confirmed the succes-
sion of iEmilianus. Valerian, who in the reign of Decius had
been appointed censor by the senate, and had faithfully executed
many offices of trust, now, at the age of sixty, appeared at the
head of an army of superior strength, as a competitor for the
regal power. The soldiers of iEmilianus, after he had reigned
four months, despatched him, to make way for his more power-
ful rival.
3. Valerian stood high with all; but age had impaired his
mind, or the people had been deceived in his character. With
the blindness of parental affection, he left in his place, while he
departed to the war in the east, his son Gallienus, who pos-
sessing genius without judgment, was excellent in poetry, ora-
tory, cookery, and gardening; but contemptible in war and
government. The empire was attacked on all sides. The
Franks, the Jilemanni, the Goths, and the Persians, hovered on
the different frontiers, and threatened it with destruction ; while
Gallienus amused himself in Rome, held mock triumphs, —
smiled, and made witty speeches when he heard the news of
Rome's disasters.
4. The Franks, from whom are descended the modern French,
Middle Hist.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. IV.
251.
Gallus.
Weak and
inert.
253.
JEmilianua
supplants
Gallus.
254.
Valerian
and his con-
temptible
son Gallie-
nus.
Chap. IV. — 1. Give an account of the Goths. Of the movements of
Decius. What was the name and conduct of his successor ? — 2. Give an
account of iEmilianus. — 3. Give some account of Valerian. Of his son.
By what nations was the empire now attacked ?
155
156
A MOIETY OF THE PEOPLE SWEPT AWAY.
Middle Hist.
268.
War with
Persia.
Sapor de-
feats Vale-
rian and
treats him
basely.
(Sapor is
6econdofthe
Sassanides.)
Said to have
been "thirty-
tyrants."
Nineteen
can be
traced.
Miserable
condition of
the empire.
Claudius.
had always defied the Roman arms ; indeed they received the
name of Franks or Freemen, from their love of independence.
They now spread terror and consternation through the provinces
of Qaul and Spain; and they passed over into Africa, and
threatened the province of Mauritania. The Alemanni, whose
name, signifying all men, expressed their great numbers, were a
warlike race inhabiting Germany. They crossed the Danube,
passed the Rhaetian Alps into the plains of Lombardy,— advanced
to Ravenna, and alarmed the capital. Gallienus sent his lieu-
tenants against the Franks, but remained in Milan to amuse
himself there, whilst on the senate devolved the task of provid-
ing for the defence of Italy from its formidable enemies.
5. On the throne of Persia was Sapor, the son of Artaxerxes.
He had compelled the Armenians, allied to Rome, to submit to
his power, and advanced upon the Roman provinces. Valerian,
marching to oppose him, intimidated the Goths, who were in
possession of the Euxine, in Asia Minor, and for a time they
withdrew. The emperor then passed the Euphrates, and was
betrayed into a situation near Edessa, where his army was sur-
rounded by that of the Persians. Affecting to consent to a
parley, Sapor made him prisoner. He was the first Roman
emperor, who suffered that disgrace. His army surrendered, and
the haughty Persian spared him no indignities, mocking him,
and treading on his neck ; at length the aged emperor sunk be-
neath his fate and died, while Sapor spread the terror of his
arms through Syria and Cilicia.
6. Neither the death of his father, nor the distress of the em-
pire, interrupted the amusements of Gallienus. But the disaf-
fection of his people sometimes roused him to direful revenge.
In one instance, he commanded the governor of a province to
exterminate all the males. Usurpers, encouraged by the dis-
contents of the people, started up in every direction. A fancied
resemblance between this period and that of the Athenian ty-
rants, gave rise to the assertion that there were thirty claimants
in Rome for the imperial purple. Nineteen only can be
traced, and all these died by violent means. Gallienus at
length fell.
7. At this deplorable crisis the Roman empire seemed lying
in hopeless ruin. The civil wars caused by the several usurpa-
tions, the contests with the barbarians, and their devastations,
together with famine and pestilence, say the historians, had
swept from the face of the empire one half of its inhabitants.
But, from the course of history, we may infer, that the pride of
the Romans had been humbled, and that virtue, so often the
child of adversity, was now the fruit of their miseries; and
in Claudius, who was next placed upon the throne, Rome
4. Give an account of the Franks — of the Alemanni. — 5. Who was
Sapor? Give an account of the war between him and the Romans. — 6.
What was the consequence of the foolish behaviour of Gallienus ? — T. What
was now the condition of the empire ? What was the character and conduct
of Claudius ?
ROME REVIVES. 157
once more possessed a sovereign suited to her wants. His jgjjg Hist-
first efforts were directed to restore order to the army, and
prepare for the expulsion of the barbarian invaders. In his
reign of two years, he defeated the Alemanni; and obtained so
great a victory over the Goths, who had passed over into Greece,
as to obtain the appellation of the Gothic Claudius,
8: Claudius died of the plague, and was succeeded by Aure-
lian, whose great military abilities for a time stayed the de-
struction of the Roman empire. The barbarians, though repulsed
by Claudius, were ready to resume their depredations. The jj1?©.
provinces of Britain, Gaul, and Spain, were in a state of revolt; Aureiian.
and Syria, Egypt, and Asia Minor, acknowledged the sway of
Zenobia, queen of Palmyra. She was the widow of Odena-
tus, a general who had humbled the pride of the haughty
Sapor. Aureiian, after disciplining his army, obtained some
advantages over the Goths, and entered into a treaty, by which
he guarantied them a safe retreat into their own country, on
condition of their furnishing the Romans with a body of two
thousand auxiliaries, consisting of cavalry. Finding it difficult Se wmhern
to defend so extensive a frontier, he withdrew the Roman forces limits of the
from the ancient Dacia, removing the greater part of the Dacians withinthe
to the southern side of the Danube ; thus adding strength to Danube,
the province of Moesia, which now received the name of
Dacia. A part of the inhabitants of the old province, how-
ever, chose rather to remain in subjection to the Goths.
9. While Aureiian was thus engaged, the Alemanni made an
irruption into Italy, and extended their devastations from the defeats the
Danube to the Po. The emperor hastened to meet them, and Alemannl-
after three battles, drove them from Italy. He next quelled chjilojvs.
an insurrection headed by Tetricus, who held command over Aureiian es-
Gaul, Spain, and Britain. In a bloody battle, fought near Cha- taautnorityla
Ions, Aureiian was victorious. The whole empire, with the over tne
exception of those provinces which owned the sway of Zeno-
bia, now acknowledged him as its sovereign.
10. Of the early history of Palmyra, whose ruins afford the
modern traveller an object of wonder and admiration, little is
known. By some, it is supposed to have been the Tadmor of
the desert, built by Solomon. But, that so splendid a city
should have risen in the midst of a barren waste, can be ac- Palmyra,
counted for, only by its situation, as lying between the Persian riumoftne
Gulf and the Mediterranean sea; thus constituting an emporium
for the merchandise conveyed in caravans from India to Eu-
rope. In the contests between the Romans and Parthians,
Palmyra maintained its independence, until the victories of
Trajan; after which, it sunk into a Roman province. In the
war which Sapor waged with the Romans, and in which the
emperor Valerian was made prisoner by the Persians, Odenatus,
8. What was the character of Aureiian ? What enemies had he to con-
tend with ? What course did he pursue ? — 9. Give an account of his war
with the Alemanni. With Tetricus. — 10. What is known and supposed
of Palmyra ?
eastern
trade.
158
ZENOBIA.
Middle Hist.
269.
Zenobia
conquerB
Egypt.
2?2.
Is con-
quered by
Aurelian.
Longinus
put
to death.
the prince of Palmyra, was the only eastern ally who rendered
the Roman empire any service. He made an attempt to recover
Valerian, which though unsuccessful, harassed the Persians, and
prevented the further progress of their arms. To reward his
service, Gallienus declared him his colleague in the empire, but
he was assassinated by his nephew.
11. Zenobia, his widow, immediately after his death, as-
sumed his authority, and conquered Egypt, from whose ancient
Macedonian kings, she claimed to be descended. Such was her
reputation, that Persia, Armenia, and Arabia, dreaded her power,
and courted her favor. Her sway extended over Syria, and she
assumed the splendid title of " Queen of the East." Zenobia is
represented as the personification of mingled loveliness and ma-
jesty. These blended harmoniously in her face and figure, in
the sound of her voice, and in the powers of her mind ; which
were improved by the education she had received from the cele-
brated Longinus. She was mistress of the learned languages,
versed in the poetry of Homer, and in the philosophy of Plato.
Tn conduct she was prudent or firm, economical or liberal, as
the occasion demanded.
12. But she had to cope with the superior force of the em-
pire, and the military skill of the first captain of the age. Yet
Aurelian writes of her, " The Roman people speak with con-
tempt of the war, which I am waging against a woman. They
are ignorant both of the character and fame of Zenobia. It is
impossible to describe her warlike preparations and her despe-
rate courage." This he writes after he had defeated her, at the
two battles of Antioch and Edessa, and while he was prosecut-
ing the siege of Palmyra. Here, reduced to the last extremity,
Zenobia undertook to escape by flight, but she was taken pri-
soner, and conveyed to the camp of Aurelian. The monarch
reserved her for his triumph. He allowed the few Palmyrenes
who had escaped the desperate siege to rebuild the city ; but
he stained his glory by putting to death the wise and amiable
Longinus.*
13. Aurelian on his return was gratified by a splendid
triumph, in which the beautiful Zenobia, covered with jewels,
and bound in chains of gold, followed his triumphal car on
foot. Yet he afterwards gave her a beautiful villa at Tivoli,
* Gibbon, on the authority of Vopiscus and Zosimus, two writers, whom
he takes the liberty to disbelieve whenever they tell improbable stories, says
that Zenobia imputed her obstinate resistance to Longinus — a poor excuse
for the conduct of Aurelian, if true. But the story is not only inconsistent
with the whole tenor of her character, but it supposes her to act thus with-
out any motive. What had Zenobia to gain or to lose by attributing her con-
duct to Longinus ? She had already lost all but her life, and the descendant
of the family of Cleopatra knew too well that the " Queen of the East" would
be preserved by the conqueror as the proudest trophy to grace his triumph.
lO. Give an account of Odenatus.— 11. Of Zenobia.— 12. What ac-
count did Aurelian give of her? What was the event of the siege of Pal-
myra ? Why is the story of Zenobia' s betraying Longinus improbable ? (See
note.)— 13. What exhibition of vanity had the conqueror on his return ?
THE ROMAN CHARACTER IMPROVED.
159
where she found an honorable seclusion. After his triumph,
Aurelian advanced towards Asia with the design of humbling
the pride of Persia. On his march, near Byzantium, he was
assassinated in a sudden frenzy of the soldiers. An interreg-
num of eight months succeeded his death. The legions re-
pented the rashness which had deprived them of an able, though
severe commander, and humbly requested the senate to appoint
a successor. The senate, struck with such unwonted respect
from the military, referred back the choice to the army. Three
times the reciprocal offer was made, and rejected; meanwhile,
the whole Roman world remained tranquil.
14. The senate at length chose one of their number, vene-
rable for virtue and years, Tacitus, a descendant of the histo-
rian. He remonstrated against the choice. " Are these limbs,
Conscript Fathers," said he, " fitted to sustain the weight of
armor, or to practise the exercises of the camp ?" But resist-
ance was vain. He was forced to assume the sovereignty. His
election was ratified by the legions in France, whither he pro-
ceeded. The Scythians had invaded the Asiatic provinces, — he
led his troops against them and obliged them to return ; but he
sunk under the accumulated cares and hardships of a military
life, and after an energetic reign of six months, died in Cappa-
docia. Florianus, the unworthy brother of Tacitus, waited
not for the voice of the senate, but with indecent haste ascended
the throne. He found an able and powerful rival in Probus,
the general of the armies of the east, who took it upon him to
avenge the insulted senate. Florianus fell, and Probus already,
in effect, master of the empire, submitted his cause to the senate ;
who, delighted with his respectful behavior, confirmed his
power.
15. The barbarians of Germany, taking advantage of the in-
terregnum which succeeded the death of Aurelian, had renewed
their devastations in the provinces, and destroyed many flourish-
ing cities in Gaul. Probus drove back the Franks, recovered
the cities, and vanquished the gloomy Lygii, a people residing
near the frontiers of Poland and Silesia. "Their shields," says
the historian Tacitus, " are black — their bodies painted black.
They choose for the combat the darkest hour of the night.
Their host advances, covered as it were with a funereal shade,
nor do they often find an enemy capable of sustaining so strange
and infernal an aspect." Yet the disciplined legions of Probus
discomfited these spirits of the night, nor were they afterwards
known in history. Probus carried the war into Germany also,
and compelled the barbarians to sue for peace. To guard that
frontier, he erected an extensive stone wall, strengthened by
towers. This good emperor, perceiving that the idleness of the
army had been a fruitful source of disorders, exercised the
Middle Hist.
Mutual defe-
rence of the
senate and
the military.
2?5.
Tacitus an
aged and
worthy
senator,
succeeded
by an un-
worthy
brother.
2W
Barbarian
devasta-
tions check-
ed by the
good
Probus.
13. What more can you say of him? What occurred on his death?—.
14:. Give an account of Tacitus. Of his immediate successors. — 15.
What enemies had Probus to encounter? What was the result of his ope-
rations ? For what did the soldiers assassinate him ?
160
FOUR EMPERORS ONE RULING MIND.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. IV.
2S2.
Carus.
Carinus and
Numerian.
Carinus a
Nero on a
small scale.
2S4.
Diocletian
makes new
arrange-
ments.
Two empe-
rors, Dio-
cletian and
Maximia-
nus ; and
two Csesars,
Galerius
and Con-
stantius
Chlorus.
Seat of go-
vernment
removed
from Aome.
Power of
the senate
diminished.
legions in planting vineyards, and in other useful labors. They
murmured and assassinated him.
16. Carus, the praetorian prefect, was raised by the army to
the vacant throne. He associated with him in the government,
his two sons, Carinus and Numerian, He left the west under
the charge of Carinus, while Numerian accompanied him to the
east, in an expedition against Persia. Carus had advanced to
Mesopotamia, and made himself master of the cities of Seleucia
and Ctesiphon, when his death, said to have been occasioned
by lightning, put an end to the war, as the superstition of the
legions would not allow them to proceed farther. Numerian
died by the hand of an assassin, during the return of the army
from Asia ; and Carinus, dwelling in Rome, displayed a poor
imitation of Nero — his profligacy, without his taste. The le-
gions of the east conferred the imperial power on Diocletian,
who, from being an obscure peasant of Dalmatia, had risen by
merit to the command of a Roman army. The soldiery of the
west adhered to Carinus. A battle was fought in Mcesia. The
troops of Carinus were on the point of obtaining the victory,
when his assassination, by a tribune whom he had deeply
wronged, left to Diocletian the undisputed sovereignty.
17. Diocletian possessed that pervading energetic mind
which controls circumstances and events; and his accession is
an era which marks the beginning of a new system of govern-
ment, perfected in the reign of Constantine. To the military
despotism which had so long governed the nation, now suc-
ceeded the despotism of the court. Diocletian early associated
with himself in the cares of government, his friend and fellow-
general Maximianus, and gave him an equal share of the im-
perial honors. For the better administration of the government,
he then chose two colleagues. One was Constantius Chlorus,
adopted by Maximianus ; the other, Galerius, adopted by him-
self, to whom were committed a share of the sovereign autho-
rity, and who were to be the successors of the emperors. On
these colleagues he conferred the titles of Caesar. They had
the command of the provinces of the Rhine and the Danube,
while the two emperors reserved for their immediate superin^
tendence, Africa, Italy, and the east. Maximianus resided in
Milan, and Diocletian in Nicomedia.
18. These measures, by depriving Rome of the presence of
its emperors, served to diminish the power of the senate, and to
sink into oblivion all those republican titles, to which the Ro-
mans even yet fondly clung. At such a distance, it could not
be expected of the emperors, to apply to the senate for the rati-
fication of their decrees ; and the power which had belonged
16. Who were the succeeding emperors? Give an account of Carus.
Of Numerian. Of Carinus. — IT. What was the intellectual character of
Diocletian ? What change did he begin ? How did he distribute the go-
vernment of the whole empire to himself and three others ? Where fix the
two principal seats ? — 18. How did these arrangements affect the senate and
people of Rome ?
BEGINNING OF MODERN COURT ETIQUETTE. 161
to them only when at the head of the army, now came to Middle Hist-
be exercised by them upon all occasions. Diocletian intro-
duced into his court the pomp and ceremony of the oriental
monarchs ; and unlike the former emperors, to whom access
might at any time be obtained, he kept himself at an elevated
distance, and was approached only with prostration- In thus
substituting the manners of Persia for those of Rome, the supe-
rior mind of Diocletian was probably actuated by other motives
than those of vanity. The monarch would thus be less ex-
posed to the rude license of the soldiers, and might avert the
fate of his predecessors. The administration of justice by the
emperor was rigorous •, and his military achievements relieved
the empire, for a time, from numerous foreign invaders.
19. In the preceding reign, Britain had been dismembered
from the empire, by the rebellion of Carausius, a naval com- ^JJJ^jJJ?
mander, who was now acknowledged sovereign of the island, gation.
He had taught the inhabitants the rude navigation of the day.
To Constantius was assigned the reduction of this province, 29©.
now greatly valued by the Romans. Civil war had, ere his ar- Rej^1i[1^ in
rival, completed half his work. Carausius had been assassi- quelled by
nated, and a new usurper reigned. The inhabitants readily Canstantm8-
returned to their allegiance, and after a separation of ten years,
were glad to be again under the mild protection of the Roman
empire.
20. Galerius kept the Goths in check ; Maximianus quelled
insurrections which had arisen in Africa, while the superior
genius of Diocletian was directed to the Persian war. The dis-
grace inflicted on Rome by the proud Sapor, in the person of
the venerable Valerian, was as yet unatoned for. The Romans
formerly exercised, as a right, the honor of nominating the king
of Armenia. Sapor had subjected this province. Tiridates,
son of the king of Armenia, had been preserved, while an in- Diocletian
fant, from the wreck of his father's fortune, and protected by g|ve9 Arme-
the Roman emperors during his minority. As he had now ar- king,
rived at manhood, Diocletian declared him the sovereign of
Armenia, and sent him to claim the throne of his father. The
Armenians hailed their native prince with every demonstration
of joy, having now been ninety -six years under the Persian
government, and nobles and people flocked to his standard.
21. Persia, being at this time embroiled in civil war, had
little leisure for the affairs of Armenia, and for a while the arms
of Tiridates triumphed. When, however, the civil contests had
ended in the elevation of Narses to the Persian throne, Tiri-
dates found himself unable to cope with so powerful an adver-
sary, and had recourse to Roman aid. Diocletian seized the Diocletian
favorable opportunity of humbling, in Persia, the only remaining Persians. *
rival of the empire. His arms triumphed, and Persia was com-
18. Describe the court of Diocletian. — 19. What is said of the rebellion
in Britain ? — 20. What was the state of things in the east ? — 21. Give an
account of the Persian war.
21
162 CONSTANTINE THE GREAT.
kiddie Hist, pelled to sue for peace. In the treaty the Roman boundaries
" were somewhat extended, the Armenian prince was acknow-
ledged, and the dependence of Armenia upon Rome established.
22. After the termination of this war, Diocletian, who had
not visited Rome since his elevation, repaired to the city, where
he enjoyed a splendid triumph, — memorable as the last of these
gorgeous exhibitions of human vanity. In the twenty-first year
of his reign, not long after his triumph, and when the empire
3©4. had been delivered from its foreign enemies, and restored to
an^Maxinli- Peace5 Diocletian formally resigned the imperial power, and re-
anus resign tired with philosophic calmness to the enjoyment of an elegant
SlTtheTwo retreat in Dalmatia. He had prevailed on Maximianus to resign
csesars, his power also ; and the abdication of the two emperors, the one
consujmius -n 3viila.ii, the other in Nicomedia, took place on the same day.
Gaierius. 23. Diocletian's great name is stained by the most cruel of
all the persecutions of the Christians. Of the ten persecutions,
the first was (A. D. 64,) under Nero; the second, (95,) under
Domitian: the third, (107,) under Trajan; the fourth, (118,)
under Adrian ; the fifth, (212,) under Caracalla ; the sixth, (235,)
The ten per- under Maximinus ; the seventh, (250,) under Decius ; the eighth,
(257,) under Valerian ; the ninth, (274,) under Anrelian ; the :
tenth and most severe was begun on Christmas day, (303,)
under Diocletian, when in the city of Nicomedia, then the
cruel under seat of Diocletian's court, six hundred of the despised followers
Diocletian, 0f Q^ist assembled to celebrate his nativity. The emper
secutions.
or
gave the horrid order to bar the doors, and set the building on
fire ; and his executioners, fearing man more than God, enclosed
them living within their funeral pyre, where their bodies all
perished.
24. Constantius, who, with Galerius, was now elevated to
mi^cie* tne rank °f Augustus, retained it but fifteen months, when he
tian's noble sickened at York. Constantine, his son, hastened from Nico-
jScnaand niedia with secresy and celerity, and arriving before his death,
her mother Was appointed his successor. The army in Britain saluted him
^uted beS-e" Augustus and emperor ; — Spain and Gaul ratified the nomination.
CafuSe cUo ^ne mnaDitants °f R°nie felt more than ever the weight of the
marry one taxes which were levied with merciless severity upon them, and
perorsSe eiSe were indignant at the continued absence of the emperors from
plead for the imperial city. The senate, and the praetorians, whose power
^ahi, andm Diocletian had almost annihilated, joined in a conspiracy with
died with the citizens against Galerius, and Maxentius, the son of Maxi-
mianus, was invested at Rome with the imperial dignity. The
grief.)
Great de-
struction of restless spirit of Maximianus could not submit tamely to the
byT^years retirement to which Diocletian had doomed him ; and he now
of civil war. came forward to lend his name and aid to the party of his son,
22. What occurred at Rome on the return of Diocletian ? What further
can you relate of this emperor and his colleague ? — 23. What is a deep blot
on his character ? Give an account of the ten persecutions. — 24b. Who were
left emperors ? Where was Constantius when he made his son his succes-
sor ? What number of emperors were now in the field, and what was the
state of the empire ? What account can you give of Valeria ? (See note.)
CHRISTIANITY MADE THE RELIGION OF THE EMPIRE. 163
assuming to himself the exercise of imperial power. Two other jggg Hist.
claimants appeared, and Rome now felt the evils of a divided
government. No less than six emperors, at enmity among
themselves, shared the sovereign power. These dissensions led
to bloody and destructive civil wars. After a period of eighteen
years, the genius of Constantine triumphed over all his rivals,
and he remained sole master of the empire.
CHAPTER V.
The Roman Empire from the adoption of Christianity.
1. Constantine possessed a lofty and majestic stature, a
bold, open countenance, and a graceful deportment. His con-
stitution was made healthy by vigorous exercise in youth, and
preserved by temperance and sobriety in later life. In business
he was indefatigable, and he looked with a vigilant eye upon S&S-
the affairs of government ; while, by rendering kindness to all constantine
who approached him, he secured love, at the same time that varies in
his talents and virtues commanded respect. Such was Con- cumstancea"
stantine while dangers surrounded him ; but when released from
fear, and placed above responsibility, his character seems to
have fallen from its elevation. Among other unworthy acts,, he
is charged with jealous cruelty to his son.
2. Two events mark the boldness of his genius, and render
his name memorable. The one was his removal of the seat of improved1
the Roman empire to Constantinople; the other was his aaft"raJhed
adoption of Christianity as the religion of the empire. Whether emperor.
Constantine embraced it from conviction of its truth, or from o«a
policy, is matter of dispute. Certain it is, that this religion, Christianity
though receiving from the Roman power only silent obloquy, nlo^of th~
or active persecution, had extended among the people; so that Roman
Constantine strengthened himself in the affections of the soldiers emPire-
by adopting it. At this period too, Christianity might number
more writers of talent and literary abilities than paganism. So-
ciety had in its morals assumed a new and more healthful tone, it had be-
Women, taught that they were co-heirs with men in the bless- cHgieonhofr|"
ings of the gospel, felt their equal value as immortal beings, and great por-
thus learned to respect themselves, and insure the respect of people.*" '"a
men. When such had become the influence of Christianity in majority of
the realm, worldly ambition pointed to the course which l ew°ereler8
the emperor pursued in declaring himself a Christian ; and Cn«stians."
Chap. V. — 1. What was the character of Constantine? — 2. What two
events rendered his name memorable? What had Christianity up to this
period received from the Roman power ? Why was it a matter of policy
with Constantine to profess it ? Did he show himself a true disciple of
Christ in making Christ's kingdom a kingdom of this world ?
164
CHRISTIANITY DEBASED BY WORLDLY EXALTATION.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. V.
325.
Arius con-
demned in
the Council
of Nice.
The princi-
pal argu-
ment stated
in form.
If Chris-
tianity is
false, the
apostles
were either
deceived or
deceivers.
They could
not have
been de-
ceived, they
were not
deceivers,
therefore
Christianity
is not false,
i. e. it is
true.
surely it was not in the spirit of Christ, who said, " My king-
dom is not of this world," that Constantine made it the religion of
the empire ; — and from henceforth we find its heavenly influence
sullied by mingling with earthly things. He made a new divi-
sion of the Roman world into four Prefectures, which were
subdivided into diocesses, and these into provinces. No parti-
cular bishop was regarded as head of the whole church, but the
emperor was such in point of fact. In this capacity he called
the first ecclesiastical council, or collection of bishops at Nice,
he having, in the controversy between Athanasius and Arius,
taken sides against the latter. The council in this respect
agreed with the emperor.
3. If after the period of Constantine, it shall appear that human
passions, and natural causes, contributed to the extension of a
religion, whose divinity is attested by a severe and holy purity
before unknown to the world, let it be remembered that what
had previously occurred, leaves a chasm in the chain of human
means, by which Christianity was established, that cannot be
supplied but on the supposition of divine agency. It is in vain
that infidelity seeks to shake our faith, by saying that when men
were offered eternal life, on condition of their abandoning the
pleasures of this, they accepted the offer, because it was an ad-
vantageous bargain ; — so long as they utterly fail in explaining
how the apostles andjirst teachers of this religion got their own
invincible faith, that the doctrine was indeed true ? a faith
which made them disregard labor, sufferings, and death. Of
this no account exists but in the New Testamev >
4. On the death of Constantine, his dominie fere divided
between his three sons, Constantine, Constat ;' ;, and Con-
st an s. The youth of these princes was not, like' 'that of their
father, spent in improving exercises, but in the effeminacy of a
33T
Cruelty and
Constan- court. He knew that he had his fortune to make ; they felt
tine's suc-
cessors.
(Eusebius,
the father of
ecclesiasti-
cal history,
was tutor to
Crispus,
whom his
father Con-
stantine put
to death.)
that theirs was secured. Hence their administration wanted the
vigor of his, while they imitated his ambition and cruelty.
During the first year of their reign, two uncles and seven cousins
were sacrificed to their jealous fears. With the exception of
Gallus and Julian, sons of the brother of Constantine, whose
youth and feeble constitution alone saved them, these princes
destroyed all the male members of the Constantine family ; and
they at length turned their arms against each other.
5. Constantine, who governed the eastern portion of the em-
2. What effect had his measures on Christianity ? How did he divide the
empire ? Who was not regarded as head of the whole church ? Who was
so in fact? What assemblage did he convene? On what occasion? — 3.
Suppose infidels should show that human passions and natural causes had
something to do in establishing Christianity, what might still be said of its
morality ? When we go back to the time of the apostles, can we find still
a chain of human means sufficient to spread such a self-denying scheme ?
Suppose an unbeliever, like the historian Gibbon, says that men embraced
Christianity because it offered them an advantageous bargain, will this shake
our faith ? How is the principal argument for the truth of Christianity stated ?
— 4:. How were Constantine's dominions divided? How was the govern-
ment administered ?
JULIAN THE APOSTATE.
165
pire, found himself early involved in a Persian war. The fame
of his father had, during his life, checked all encroachments on
the eastern provinces. Sapor, the grand-son of Narses, was
now on the Persian throne, and had, for several campaigns,
waged a successful war upon the provinces. Constantine
marched against him — the Persian arms triumphed at Singara.
The monarchs at length withdrew their forces, and a peace was
concluded. After Constantine's return, a dispute between him
and Constans ended in his violent death; and left Constans
sole master of the west. He maintained his authority for ten
years, when he fell a victim to the ambition of Magnentius,
the general of the Gallic legions, who assumed the purple. Con-
stantius, to secure the undivided sovereignty of the empire, fought
a bloody battle with Magnentius and defeated him. Of the ve-
teran soldiers of the empire, 54,000 were left dead upon the field;
and Magnentius, despairing of the crown, put an end to his life.
6. The civil wars had given the barbarians an opportunity of
renewing their depredations upon the frontier provinces. The
Franks and the Alemanni had devastated Gaul. Flourishing
towns were laid in ashes, and the inhabitants compelled to flee
from the country to the fortified cities, where they were obliged
to depend for subsistence upon the scanty supply of grain raised
within the walls. In the east the Sarmatians had passed the
Danube, and the Persian monarch, now returned from a victo-
rious expedition against the Scythians, again threatened the pro-
vinces of Asia. Constantius found himself unequal to the
weight of t1 I empire, and was constrained to look for some one
with who • :?.■ divide its cares. His cousin Julian, now the
only rem g member of the Constantine family, had been
left to puicde his studies in obscurity, among the Grecian phi-
losophers. Constantius appointed him Caesar, and gave him
command of the provinces of Gaul. He conducted in person
the war with the Sarmatians, whom he defeated and compelled
to sue for peace.
7. Julian, (called the Apostate from his having forsaken Chris-
tianity,) whose abilities for action had been despised on account
of his love of study, showed himself an able general, in a suc-
cessful contest with the Franks and Alemanni. The fame of
his hardy perseverance and successful enterprise, spread through
the empire, and increased the already awakened jealousy of
Constantius. He issued an order, commanding a large detach-
ment of the veterans who were under Julian, to march to the
aid of the eastern legions. The troops, reluctant to enter upon
what they deemed a foreign service, and unwilling to leave a
general whom they loved, for an emperor whom they despised,
refused obedience, and at once proclaimed Julian emperor.
With feigned reluctance he accepted the crown, and to enforce
Middle Hist.
34©.
Constans,
sole empe-
ror of the
west.
Constantius
reigns
Barbarian
depreda-
tions
in Gaul.
The east
threatened.
Julian made
Csesar.
Tht
Sarmatians
defeated.
360.
Julian an
example of
a man pos-
sessing ta-
lents both
for study
and action.
5. Give an account of the Persian war. Of Constans. Of Magnentius. —
6. What was the effect of the civil wars ? How was the empire attacked ?
Who was Julian ? — T. How did Julian manifest his character? On what
occasion was he proclaimed emperor ?
166 PAGANISM RESTORED BY JULIAN.
Middle Hist, ^jg ciaim? marched with secrecy and despatch to the attack of
Constantinople. Constantius, relinquishing the Persian war,
marched to meet him ; but his death relieved the empire from
the horrors of civil contention.
Paganism 8. The reign of Julian was memorable for the re-establish-
bifs'hedby ment of paganism. The emperor was, doubtless, above believing
the phiioso- m its fooleries himself; but he thought like most of the early
Julian, philosophers of Greece and Rome, that the people must have
some religion coined for their use. His ideas of Christianity
were associated with the character, and conduct towards his fa-
mily, of the Constantines, its supporters ; and he probably thought
that Christianity, as well as paganism, was such a coinage; not
(The ar u ren,ectmg that whatever God has made his creatures to need, he
ment stated invariably provides. Man is created to need religion; for since
in form. ^ dawn of history there have been double-dealing traffickers in
God gives the article. Among these stand prominent the Egyptian, Greek,
he make? m^ R°man priests, the Delphian oraculars, and the Druids of
him to have Britain. These manufacturers of fable and imposition, supplied
We neeTof" tne market kept ever open by man's mental craving ; and they
He has were repaid by his submission of body, soul, and estate. Unlike
need reii- these, the Christian teachers believed that Christianity was in
Therefore trutn tnat spiritual food, which the Almighty Parent had him-
he has self sent down to satisfy the desires of the famishing soul. To
gion for him^ tn^s v*ew °f Christianity, which exalts it over all others as the
i. e. Chris- only true religion, Julian himself gave an incidental testimony;
lamty.) ^OY ^p recommended, that with the heathen ceremonies, the
people should follow the Christian morality. This emperor
did not indeed revive the persecutions of former pagan sove-
reigns, or prohibit the worship of the Christians ; yet he removed
them from offices of trust, and from the care of the education
of youth, and oppressed them in various ways.
3£«g. 9. Julian settled the concerns of the west, and proceeded into
Julian's Asia. After wintering in Antioch, he marched towards Persia,
Pped?t?on.*" ravageQj the plains of Mesopotamia, passed the Euphrates,
and spread devastation through a part of Syria. He attempted,
with the strenuous aid of the Jews, to rebuild the temple at Je-
rusalem, in order to disprove the prophecy of Christ. The
^fil foundations of the temple were laid, but they were destroyed.
His vain at- " Horrible balls of fire," says a pagan historian, "breaking out
tejnpt to fe- from the foundation with frequent and reiterated attacks, ren-
Jewish6 dered the place inaccessible to the workmen. The victorious
temple, element continuing in this manner, seemed obstinately bent to
T. How was his accession secured and the empire saved from civil war ?
— 8. For what is his reign chiefly memorable ? What is the strong proba-
bility respecting Julian's own belief? When we know that God has created
man to need any thing, what may we infer ? Who are named as classes of
men who have trafficked with the religious wants of mankind ? What have
they manufactured for the people ? What have they got from the people in
return ? What difference do you find between these and the early teachers
of Christianity ? How did Julian incidentally bear testimony to Christiani-
ty?— 9. Give an account of Julian's Persian expedition. Of his attempt to
rebuild the Jewish temple.
THE EMPIRE DISMEMBERED IN THE EAST. 167
drive them to a distance, and the hopeless attempt was aban- jgge Hist
doned." Christians and pagans alike believed that the doom
of a supernatural power forbade the work ; and it was no more
attempted.
10. At the passage of the Tigris, the Romans obtained a vic-
tory over the Persians, but here their successes ended. Julian
was induced to burn his fleet at the suggestion of a treacherous
Persian, who, in the character of a deserter, had entered his Julian in the
camp. As the Romans advanced their provisions failed. The whichCras-
cattle were driven away, the inhabitants had departed, and the sus formerly
country, naturally fertile, presented only smoking ruins. The JJerishesf
emperor sought to retrace his steps, but the Persian prince,
with a numerous army, appeared in sight, hovered around, and
harassed his retreat. Attempting to force his way, Julian was
mortally wounded. His dying moments were passed, not in
sacrificing to the gods, but in philosophical discourse. The
unexpected death of the leader spread, in the harassed army,
confusion and dismay. The officers could not agree upon a
successor, when the name of Jovian, a man of no military re- j -
nown, but attached to the household of Julian, was circulated succeeds,
among the troops, and he was immediately declared emperor.
11. Amid their deliberations and sorrows, the legions had been
compelled to continue their retreat, surrounded by the Persians, The Ro-
and momentarily subject to their vexatious and often fatal at- heartened"
tacks. Four days after the death of Julian, the disheartened . and
army reached the city of Susa. The Tigris was still to be enemy's
crossed, and they were almost in despair of effecting their es- power,
cape. Here Sapor sent them proposals of peace, and although Roman em-
they were disadvantageous, they were accepted. The provinces ^mbe'rVd
beyond the Tigris, which Diocletian had obtained of Narses, by losing
were then ceded to Persia, and the impregnable city of INI isibis, v?nCee Jeast
which had so often resisted the Persian arms, together with oftheTigris,
some of the strongest fortresses in Mesopotamia, were surren- Nisibis.
dered ; when the army were suffered to pursue their homeward
way in ignominious peace.
12. On the accession of Jovian, Christianity again became
the established religion of the empire. But his reign was ter-
minated by death before he reached Constantinople. Valen-
tinian, commander of the guards, was unanimously proclaimed
his successor. He appointed his brother Valens as his col-
league, committing to him the eastern provinces, while himself 3^54.
retired to the western, where he prosecuted the war against the vaientinian
barbarians with considerable success. Yet the decline of the ^hlem-8'
empire became more and more apparent. The civil wars of the pire near its
sons of Constantine had destroyed vast numbers of soldiers, and c,ose'
left the frontiers exposed to the depredations of the barbarians.
The valor and energy of Julian had, indeed, for a moment,
IO. What was the manner of his falling into a snare ? What were Us
consequences ? What was the manner of Julian's death? Relate the ap-
pointment of his successor. — 11. Give an account of the treaty of peace and
the dismembering of the empire. — 12. What religion did Jovian favor ?
168
THE GOTHS ADMITTED INTO THE EMPTRE.
Middle Hist.
375.
Gratian
17 years of
The Goths
implore aid
of the Ro-
mans
against the
terrible
Huns.
Division of
the Goths
in eastern
' and
western.
376
Goth? al-
lowed to
settle in the
Roman Em-
pire.
They are ill-
treated by
the Romans.
Insurrection
of the Goths-
checked their incursions, but his unsuccessful Persian war had
still farther weakened the military force of the empire, and pre-
pared the way for the peace, by which Jovian began its dismem-
berment. Valentinian died in the twelfth year of his reign, and
left the empire to his son Gratian, with the condition that a
younger son named Valentinian, then an infant, should be as-
sociated with him.
13. The Goths, who had repeatedly invaded the empire,
again appeared on its frontier; not now indeed in the character
of hostile barbarians, but of humble suppliants, themselves
driven from their dominions. The Huns, a vast and terrible
race, inhabiting the north of Asia, and more barbarous than
either the Goths or Germans, had been precipitated by the wars
in the east, upon the frontiers of Europe. Under Attila,
called the " Scourge of God," they had subdued the nations of
the Alani, who inhabited the regions between the Volga and Ta-
nais, and advanced upon the kingdom of the Goths. Their first
appearance on the Gothic frontier was in the declining days of
the great chief, Hermanric, whose dominion, it is said, ex-
tended from the Baltic to the Danube and lake Maeotis; and
who had united under his sway the two great portions of the
Gothic race, the western or Visigoths, and the eastern or Ostro-
goths ; the former having been governed by the house of the
Balti, the latter by that of Amali. The death of Hermanric,
prevented the united efforts of the Goths in checking the in-
vaders, and the Ostrogoths soon submitted. The Visigoths, in
terror as the desolating " Scourge" approached, supplicated the
emperor Valens, for vacant lands on the southern banks of the
Danube, engaging to guard the frontier from the dreaded enemy.
14. Valens agreed to admit the Gothic nation within the em-
pire, on certain conditions, to which they acceded 5 but the
most important of which, the relinquishment of their arms, they
afterwards evaded. The nation was transported across the
Danube to improve the waste lands of Thrace. A million of
barbarians, who could bring into the field 200,000 warriors,
were thus admitted to a peaceful settlement within the bosom
of the empire. The emperor granted the Goths permission to
engage in traffic; but the avarice of the Roman ministers not
only rendered the permission useless, but destructive to them.
At length their property was exhausted in procuring means of
subsistence, and they were compelled to sell their children to
obtain bread. The treachery of the Roman governor of Mar-
cianopolis towards Fritigern, a valiant Goth, enkindled his
12. Give an account of his successors. Of the disastrous state of the
empire. Give an account of Gratian. — 13. In what character did ihe
Goths now approach the Romans? Give an account of the Huns. What
had been the extent of the Gothic empire in the days of their great chief?
What division of the nation submitted? Which petitioned Valens, and for
what? — 14. Where did they settle? What condition did they evade?
What was their whole number? The number of their warriors? How
were they treated in respect to traffic ? To what did necessity compel
them ? What chieftain arose ?
THEODOSIUS. 169
wrath. He summoned his countrymen to arms, and led them Jjgg Hist.
to Maesia, which they overran and desolated ; and then proceeded period i.
to threaten the capital.
15. Valens now sought to crush a nation, whom he had first
introduced into the heart of the empire, and then forced by ill-
usage to become his enemies. Gratian, who had just succeeded
his father in the west, was summoned to his aid, but was pre-
vented by an irruption of the Alemanni, which employed his
whole resources. The Visigoths, meanwhile, had formed an
alliance with a body of Ostrogoths, who had also procured a
settlement on the southern side of the Danube, and with some
scattered hordes of the Alani and Huns. On the plains of A- j£ople~
drianople, Valens met the barbarians, and the courage and skill The Goth's
of the Roman legions failed in the encounter. The emperor lenJanJde-
was wounded, and conveyed to a building, which being fired stro'y two-
by the enemy, he perished in the flames. Two-thirds of the ^/my.
imperial army were destroyed ; the remainder fled, and the
Goths ravaged the country to the suburbs of Constantinople.
16. Gratian, meanwhile victorious over the Alemanni,, march-
ed to the relief of the east. He learned on his journey the
death of Valens, and the defeat of his army ; and sensible of
his inability to sustain the weight of an empire sinking under
its numerous foes, he associated with himself, in the govern- .
ment, Theodosius, a native of Spain. His father was a gene- sovereign,
ral who had distinguished himself in the reign of Valentinian, Th™odosius
but was unjustly put to death, by order of Gratian himself, his asso-
But such was the towering genius of the son, such his reputation ciate'
for wisdom and magnanimity of temper, that the emperor, in his
hour of peril, scrupled not to admit him as his partner. Theo-
dosius was free from the vainglory of conquest, and he pursued
at first a careful and watchful policy. From Thessalonica,
which he made his head quarters, he kept his eye fixed upon
the barbarians, and availed himself of every judicious oppor-
tunity of wasting their forces, or gaining over their leaders.
17. Fritigern died, and disunion among the Goths ensued ; Theodosius'
the different tribes pursued each its own individual interest with- Lrlatj?e2J
out concert or design ; and in four years from the death of
Valens, the policy of Theodosius procured an advantageous
peace, the conditions of which were arranged in the neighbor-
hood of Constantinople. Theodosius invited their aged chief,
• ... The true
Athanaric, to visit the capital, and partake the hospitalities of method of
his palace. The chieftain was astonished at the grandeur and overcoming
x o enemies.
magnificence of the objects presented to his view. " Truly,"
exclaimed he, iC the emperor of the Romans is a god upon
earth, and the presumptuous man, who dares to lift his hand
against him, is guilty of his own blood." Athanaric sickened
and died. Theodosius paid the most respectful honors to his
15. Give an account of the battle between the Goths and Romans. —
16. Why did Gratian choose an associate ? Why did he select Theodo-
sius?— it. Give an account of the manner in which Theodosius treated
the Goths. Of the opinion of the chief respecting him.
22
170
THE SERVANTS OP CHRIST EXERCISE LORDSHIP.
Middle Hist.
383.
Maximus
proclaimed
emperor in
Gaul; de-
stroys Gra-
tian.
Theodosius
receives
Justina, and
marries her
daughter.
The banks of
THE
SAVE.
Theodosius
defeats
Maximus.
388.
Theodosius
becomes the
last emperor
of the whole
empire.
Ecclesiasti-
cal power
assumes
control
over the
civil.
Theodosius
not only
humbles
himself, but
the secular
power.
remains; and his grateful Goths, thus converted into friends,
entered the Roman legions, declaring that while Theodosius
lived they would acknowledge no other chief.
18. While Theodosius was thus calming the disorders of the
east, a new insurrection had arisen in the west. The indolence
of Gratian had alienated the affections of his subjects. Maxi-
mus, at the head of his legions, entered Gaul, where he was
hailed as emperor. Gratian, who was at Paris, fled to Lyons,
and was there assassinated, through the intrigues of Maximus,
who next invaded Italy, and compelled the widowed em-
press Justina, with her young son Valentinian II., and her
daughter Galla, to flee for succor to the emperor of the east.
Theodosius did not invite them to his court, but met them at
Thessalonica, whither they had come by sea. His wife being
dead, he married the beautiful Galla, and then marched, at the
head of a hardy and disciplined army, into Pannonia. On the
banks of the Save he met and defeated the forces of Maximus,
and executed the usurper. The provinces returned to their alle-
giance ; and Theodosius, superior to the seductions of pros-
perity, so often fatal to virtue, magnanimously restored to Va-
lentinian the throne of Milan, and added to his dominions the
provinces of Britain and Gaul. But the young prince soon fell
a victim to domestic treason. Theodosius thus became sole
monarch of the empire, now for the last time united under the
sway of one sovereign.
19. Since the reign of Constantine, Christianity had been
rapidly declining from its primitive purity, and ambitious men
sought, through its medium, to gratify the unhallowed lust of
power. By gradually extending the authority of the bishops,
the foundation was laid of that abominable oppression, which
for so many ages was to weigh down the moral and intellectual
energies of Europe. During the reign of Theodosius, the
ecclesiastical power manifested itself as already superior to
the civil. Ambrose, bishop of Milan, had forbidden to the
empress Justina, who reigned in the name of her son Valen-
tinian II., the use of a chapel, where she might worship
agreeably to her belief in the Arian doctrines. The bishop
next sternly and openly denounced her as a heretic, and when
she passed an edict to banish him, he refused to obey ; — nor
could she compel his obedience, or punish his contumacy.
Theodosius had, in a moment of passion, given the only cruel
order which stains his equitable government, that of putting to
the sword the offending people of Thessalonica. He repented,
and sought, too late, to hinder its execution. Ambrose boldly
reproached him, and exacted of him public penance ; and the
18. Give an account of the last days of Gratian. Give some account
of Maximus. What account can you give of Justina? Of Galla? Of
Valentinian II. ? — 19. What may be said of Christianity from the reign of
Constantine ? What during the reign of Theodosius, concerning the stretch
of ecclesiastical power ? What was done by Ambrose in relation to Justina ?
To Theodosius ?
DEATH OF THE GREAT THEODOSIUS. 171
master of the world, in a mournful and suppliant posture, with Middle Hist.
sighs and tears, confessed and deplored his crime, in the pre- period i.
sence of the congregation. chap. v.
20. Theodosius died at Milan, a few months after he had v*^^v^v-^
quelled the disturbances consequent on the death of Valentinian, 395.
lamented by the church, to which he had been reconciled ; by TheodosSL.
the Roman people, whom he had governed with moderation ;
and even by the vanquished provinces, who had experienced his
kindness. Before his death he divided the empire between his
two young sons; and this division proving permanent, becomes
an important epocha in history.
SO. Was Theodosius honored in his death ? What division of the em-
pire did he make ?
Theodosius and his Sons
PERIOD II
FROM
395.
THE DIVISION OF
THE ROMAN EMPIRE,
TO
THE ARABIAN > g^O.
HEGIRA, 5
ClNTO THE EASTERN
£ and western,
Cor flight of
(_ MAHOMET.
CHAPTER i.
The Western Empire.
1. The student has hitherto found his attention directed to
some one great nation, extending its influence to all the smaller
kingdoms and nations of the earth, and thus, at the same time,
placing before him the whole civilized world. The Egyptian,
Assyrian and Chaldean, — the Macedonian, Persian, Grecian, and
Roman empires, have thus successively risen to his view. But
from this period he will find his attention divided, first, between
the two divisions of the Roman empire, now distinct and sepa-
rate governments, and subsequently, between various independ-
ent and powerful nations, arising from the ruins of the Roman
empire, anal the civilisation of the northern barbarians.
2. On the death of Theodosius, his son Arcadius succeeded
to the Eastern empire, comprising Thrace, Dacia, Macedonia,
Asia Minor, Syria and Egypt ; — while to his remaining son,
Honorius, fell the Western empire, which contained Italy,
Africa, Gaul, Spain, Britain, and the provinces of Noricum,
Pannonia, and Dalmatia. Although the barbarous nations had
Period II. — Chap. I. — 1. To what has the attention of the student been
hitherto directed ? What empires have successively occupied the principal
place ? What is now to become the course of history ? From what origin
are we to find nations arising ?— -2. Which of the sons of Theodosius had
the Eastern empire? Of what did it consist? Which had the Western?
What provinces did it comprise ?
173
Middle Hist,
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
Eastern em-
pire, capital
Constanti-
nople.
Western
empire,
capital
Milan.
174
SWARMS OF BARBARIANS.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
402.
The Ostro-
goths.
Treachery
of Rufinus.
POLLEN-
TIA and
VERONA.
Stilicho de-
feats the
Goths under
Alaric.
Great confe-
deracy of
German
trihes.
4©6.
FLO-
RENCE.
Stilicho be-
sieges them
in camp, and
forces them
to capi-
tulate.
bowed to the superior abilities of Theodosius, they knew their
own strength, and the weakness of the empire. The Roman
armies were not only filled with barbarian auxiliaries, but they
were also not unfrequently commanded by chiefs of barbarian
origin ; while the indolent and effeminate citizens refused to
leave their luxurious pleasures for the service of their country.
Luxury had, in another manner, laid the train for the subver-
sion of the empire. The Roman soldiers had obtained permis-
sion of the different emperors, to cast aside their heavy shields
and a part of their armor; so that when they were exposed to
the attacks of the barbarians, now instructed in the art of war,
clad in armor, and skilful in the use of missile weapons, the
contest was unequal, and the barbarians had the advantage.
The youth and incapacity of Arcadius and Honorius subjected
them to the control of their favorites. Rufinus, a Gaul, go-
verned the councils of Arcadius; while Stilicho, a Vandal, di-
rected the administration of his brother.
3. The western Goths, under Alaric, took up arms, passed
into Greece, and spread desolation through Macedonia, Thes-
saly, and Attica. Rufinus, deeming it a stroke of policy to turn
their arms upon Italy, negotiated an alliance with them, and
privately advised Alaric to seek his fortune in the Western em-
pire, promising that succor should be sent him. The Goths
accordingly proceeded towards Jllyricum, Istria, and the north-
east of Italy. Stilicho, at the head of the western legions, ad-
vanced to repulse them. The history of their progress is obscure,
but it is certain that Stilicho obtained a decided advantage at
Pollentia, and that they were compelled to retreat. Alaric was
again defeated at Verona; and the vigilance and skill of Stilicho
finally procured a temporary peace.
4. The fears of Honorius were awakened by this invasion,
and to preserve his person from danger, he removed his resi-
dence from Milan to Ravenna, a more secure situation, which
henceforth became the imperial city. An irruption of Pagan
barbarians now occurred, more formidable than even that of
the Goths, who being christianized, possessed the rudiments
of civilisation. These were a confederacy of the German
nations, the Vandals, Suevi, Burgundians, and part of the
Mani, to the number of 200,000 fighting men. Headed by their
king, Radagaisus, they issued from the shores of the Baltic,
showed themselves upon the banks of the upper Danube, passed
into Italy, and laid siege to Florence. The active Stilicho ap-
peared with his army, surrounded the barbarians, and besieging
them in their camp, reduced them to the greatest distress, and com-
%. What causes of the downfal of the empire were now at work ? Who
were the respective favorites of the monarchs ? — 3. What nation attacks the
Romans? What portion of the empire do they ravage? How and by what
treachery is their course turned ? ' Describe their next operations, and those
of Stilicho ? — 4. What change did Honorius now make in the seat of the
Western empire ? What irruption of barbarians occurred ? Why was it
more formidable than that of the Goths? What was their progress? By
whom and how were they met ?
-ALARIC, THE GOTH. 175
pelled a great part of them to capitulate. Radagaisus perished ; Middle Hist.
when the remainder of the army retreated. Leaving Italy, they period ii.
proceeded to devastate and take possession of Gaul, from the chap. i.
Rhine to the Pyrenees. " This," says Gibbon, " may be con- v-*"~v-h^
sidered as the fall of the Roman empire beyond the Alps."
5. The feeble and contemptible Honorius, whose principal
occupation, history informs us, was to feed poultry, was moved,
by the arts of an ambitious flatterer, to jealousy and hatred
against the only man whose talents could support his tottering Honorius,
state. Stilicho was murdered, and Alaric advanced upon Rome. Jous ofsim-
The venerable city was forced to purchase with money the re- cno> de-
treat of the barbarians. The conditions of the payment not
being strictly complied with, Alaric made this a pretence to re- .
turn. Again he besieged Rome, and compelled the reluctant The senate
senate to receive from him Attalus, the prefect of the city, as their buy a peace,
emperor. The capital was still spared, but the Gothic troops return. S
overran and devastated Italy. Attalus did not long enjoy the
favor of the Gothic chief, who, the following year, degraded
him from the imperial dignity. Honorius, at Ravenna, still re- Th take
fused to make peace with the Goths. They returned, thirsting and sack the
for spoils, and bent upon destruction; — and Rome, so long clty'
vaunted as the " eternal city," was taken, and suffered during
six days the horrors of sack and pillage, from a barbarous
soldiery.
6. Alaric passed triumphantly forth, and bent his course to
the south of Italy, intending to embark for Africa, — when he
died. His grave was made in the bed of a small stream, whose
waters, for that purpose, had been conducted from their channel. Aiaric's
After his burial, the stream in resuming its wonted course, con- buriaL
cealed for ever the body of the conqueror. Adolphus, his bro-
ther-in-law, succeeded him. His first intention was to make
Rome the seat of a new empire of the Goths ; but study and re-
flection convinced him, that law and order were essential to a
well constituted state ; and as the yet unlearned Goths would
not submit to these, he magnanimously resolved to seek a Ad^jfs* or
region more favorable to the genius of his countrymen, and Atauipnus,
leave Italy to be governed by her own regulations. After the £n|Xmof
Goths had enjoyed an undisputed control during four years, he the visi-
concluded a peace with Honorius, receiving from his hand gsPain.n
his sister Placidia* in marriage. He retired from Italy into
* The young Placidia was the daughter of the great Theodosius and
Galla. She was taken prisoner at the sack of Rome, and carried away by
the barbarians, but was treated with respect. She captivated Adolphus ;
and the elegant person and ingenuous mind of the young soldier were not
regarded by her with indifference ; and it may be that Italy was, on this oc-
4:. Where did they then go ? What part of the Roman empire was now
cut off? — 5. What kind of emperor was Honorius ? How did he reward
his best friend and ablest general ? What immediately followed ? How
did Rome put off her evil day ? What treatment did the city, formerly
boasted as eternal, now receive ? — 6. Relate the death and burial of Alaric.
The noble conduct of his brother-in-law. Where and how was the mar-
riage of Adolphus and Placidia celebrated ? (See note.)
176
GENSERIC, THE VANDAL.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
424.
Placidia go-
verns for
her son Va-
lentinianlll.
42T
Genseric
with his
Vandals
overruns
Africa and
establishes a
kingdom.
442.
The Huns
the most nu-
merous and
formidable
of all the
barbarians.
Gaul, and from thence into Spain, where he founded the king-
dom of the Visigoths.
7. The independence of Britain was acknowledged by Hono-
rius, and he had ceded the lands of Upper Germany to the Bur-
gundians, and of Lower Germany to the Franks, when, after an
ignominious reign of twenty-eight years, he died. Adolphus
had fallen in war, and Placidia, having returned to Italy, had
become the wife of Constantius, a distinguished general. He
succeeded Honorius, was assassinated, and his son Valenti-
nian, a boy of six, proclaimed emperor. The administration
was committed to his mother, Placidia, as regent. The armies
of the Western empire were commanded by ^Etius and Boni-
face, between whom there was an irreconcilable enmity. The
misrepresentations of iEtius, led Placidia wrongly to distrust the
loyalty of Boniface, and to recall him from Africa, where he
held the command. Boniface, who has been styled the last of
the Romans, was roused by the suspicion of his integrity; and
revolting, he invited to his aid a desolating scourge.
8. This was Genseric, king of the Vandals, who had esta-
blished his nation in Spain. He transported his hosts across
the straits of Gibraltar, drew to his camp the wandering Moors,
and then began the devastation of Africa. Boniface learned too
late his mistake, and returned to his allegiance. But the pro-
vinces from Tangiers to Tripoli had become a prey to the de-
structive fury of the Vandals. Boniface engaged them in battle,
but was defeated and compelled to retreat. The success of the
Vandals was for a time retarded by a treaty with the Western
emperor, but in eight years, Genseric had obtained possession
of Carthage, and permanently established a kingdom.
9. The terrible Huns, who had driven the Goths and Vandals
from the north of Europe, now spread their savage hosts from
the banks of the Volga to those of the Danube. Attila, their
king, claimed descent from the ancient Huns, who had con-
tended with the monarchs of China ; and 700,000 warriors fol-
lowed his banners. He had conquered the various nations of
barbarians who still inhabited northern Europe. The Gepidae,
casion, indebted as much to love, as to reason for deliverance. The royal
nuptials were celebrated with great splendor at Narbonne, the capital of the
new kingdom won by Gothic valor. A hall was decorated after the Roman
fashion. The first place of honor was reserved for Placidia, while Adol-
phus, clad in a Roman toga, himself took a lower seat. Fifty beautiful
youths, attired in silken garments, whom he destined as a gift to his bride
then advanced, each presenting to her two cups, the one filled with gold, the
other with gems, a part of the spoils of Rome. At the same time Attalus,
that Attalus whom Alaric had created emperor, appeared, and sang the
epithalamium.
T. What parts of the empire had become independent ? Who succeeded
Honorius ? How did Placidia become vested with the chief power 1 In
what respect was she unfortunate in her generals ? What mistake did she
commit ? What wrong did iEtius ? What great wrong did Boniface ?— ®.
Describe the course of Genseric and his Vandal subjects. — 9. Who were
the Huns ? What was the extent of their empire ? The number of their
warriors ? What nations were subject to Attila?
ATTILA, THE HUN.
177
and the Ostrogoths, the kings of Scandinavia and of the islands,
owned his supremacy. His depredations extended to Persia;
and Theodosius II., now emperor of the east, was compelled to
pay him tribute. He made an alliance with Genseric, and pre-
venting the eastern emperors from yielding assistance to Valen-
tinian, facilitated the conquests of the Vandal king.
10. Intending to invade the Western empire, Attila sought to
unite with him the nations of Gaul, among which the Visigoths,
headed by Theodoric, the son of Alaric, and permanently set-
tled in the southern part, were the most formidable. Theodo-
ric wavered between the rival powers ; but when iEtius marched
into Gaul, he united in its defence. iEtius further drew to his
standard as allies, the Saxons, the Burgundians, the Sarmatians
or Alani, the Franks, and other powerful tribes. At Chalons,
iEtius and his auxiliaries encountered the formidable host of
Attila, and by one of the most bloody battles recorded, com-
pelled him to retreat. The Visigoths constituted the strength
of the Roman forces, and Theodoric, their valiant king, fell in
the battle. The Goths, animated by the son of Theodoric,
were furious to revenge his death, but the policy of iEtius, who
wished to preserve the Huns as a counterpoise to the power of
the Goths, secured Attila a retreat.
11. The power of Attila, however, was not broken, nor his
resources exhausted. The ensuing spring, with apparently un-
diminished strength, he passed the Alps, and invaded Italy, — be-
sieged and took Jlqmleia, Milan, and Pavia. Valentinian made
a hasty retreat from Ravenna to Rome, and the defence of the
nation was again committed to iEtius, who, destitute of other
troops than his domestic forces, found himself unable to with-
stand, or retard the depredations of the enemy. The barbarians
of Gaul refused to march to the defence of Italy. An embassy,
accompanied by Leo, bishop of Rome, in his sacred robes, was
despatched to the barbarian camp. Attila listened with attention
to their humble supplications, and acceded to a treaty, which
purchased the temporary safety of Italy, at an immense price.
12. The death of Attila, which occurred soon after his re-
treat, by disuniting the various nations who had yielded to the
sway of his genius, ruined the power of the Huns, and relieved
Rome for a time from the terror of its most formidable enemy.
Yet the destruction of the empire was not to be stayed by the
removal of external foes. Its internal strength was gone, nor
did any virtue remain, to give hopes of recovery. Placidia
was now dead, and the feeble Valentinian, no longer governed
by her, gave way to jealousy; and the first sword which
perhaps he had ever drawn, was plunged into the bosom of
his faithful iEtius. He thus, as he was told by a bold Ro-
MiddU Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
Theodoric
king of the
Goths, holds
the balance,
declares
for the
Romans.
451.
CHALONS.
iEtius de-
feats Attila.
Loss on both
sides
162,000.
Theodoric
killed.
452.
The Huns
make a
successful
inroad into
Italy.
Rome again
purchases
a peace.
453.
Death of
Attila, and
end of the
great empire
of the Huns.
Valentinian
kills his
best friend.
9. With whom did he form an alliance ?— lO. What did Attila seek to
do? What course was taken by Theodoric? By iEtius? Give some ac-
count of the battle of Chalons.— 11. What cities did Attila next take?
What hindered his taking Rome ? — 12. What effect had the death of Attila
on the empire of the Huns ? What was done by Valentinian ?
23
178
COUNT REC1MER.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
454.
Wrongs and
vengeance
of Eudoxia.
455.
Genseric
takes and
pillages
Rome.
Makes
Eudoxia a
prisoner.
Count Reci-
mer the real
sovereign of
Rome.
Recimer
puts down
Avitus and
elevates
Majorianus.
461.
Destroys
him to make
way for
Severus.
man, " cut off his right hand with his left." His vices did not
long remain unpunished, He fell a victim to the vengeance of
Petronius Maximus, an injured husband.
13. Maximus was elected emperor. He compelled Eudoxia,
the widow of Valentinian, to marry him ; and she, in the
madness of hatred, secretly called on Genseric to avenge her
wrongs. He had become powerful by a naval force, and had
extended a system of piracy into every part of the Mediterra-
nean. Joyfully accepting the invitation to invade Italy, he
landed his troops at the mouth of the Tiber, and advanced to
the gates of the now defenceless city. Maximus, on learning
the approach of the Vandals, attempted to escape, but was slain
in the streets. The entreaties of the good Leo again saved the
city from conflagration, but for fourteen days and nights it pre-
sented horrible scenes of pillage and rapine. Private and public
wealth, the treasures of palaces and churches, became the prey
of the Vandals. The ornaments of the capitol, with the statues
of the gods, which since the introduction of Christianity, had
not. been removed, — with the treasures and vessels of the holy
temple of Jerusalem, which had been brought by Titus to adorn
his triumph, were alike embarked for Carthage ; but they were
lost on the passage. The empress Eudoxia, and her three
daughters, were carried, by Genseric, prisoners to Africa, with
multitudes of Roman women and children.
14. Avitus, of Gaul, was at Toulouse on an embassy to
Theodoric If., king of the Visigoths, when the news of the death
of Maximus, and of the recent disasters at Rome, was received.
The vacant throne tempted his ambition. The powerful Theo-
doric encouraged it, and by his influence, Avitus was received
into Rome as emperor. Count Recimer, a descendant of the
kings of the Goths, commanded the barbarian troops who formed
the defence of Italy. He was indignant that he should not have
been consulted in the choice of an emperor ; and compelling
Avitus to abdicate, he raised to the imperial dignity Majori-
anus, a man of virtue and talents, who in his person seemed
to revive the image of the Roman majesty. He attempted the
character of a reformer, but the various classes who derived ad-
vantage from the existing abuses of the degenerate times, united
against him.
15. Italy suffered severely from the piracies of the Vandals,
and Majorianus built a fleet, vainly attempting to subdue the
power of Genseric. His want of success afforded Recimer
a pretence to depose him. This maker of emperors next put
up Severus, of course himself exercising the sovereign power.
Finding a navy necessary to prevent the depredations of the
13. What events followed his death ? What was now the condition of
Genseric? What his conduct in regard to Rome? What treasures were
lost at sea? What prisoners were sent to Carthage ?■ — 14-. Give an account
of the successor of Maximus. Who put him down and elevated another ?
What was the character of Majorianus? — 15. How was he displaced, and
who was put in his place ?
END OF THE WESTERN EMPIRE. 179
Vandals, Recimer solicited the aid of Leo, who now filled the kiddie mst.
imperial throne of Constantinople ; and his assistance was period ii.
granted, on condition that he should nominate an emperor, chap. i.
He accordingly named Athemius, who repaired to Italy, where,
to strengthen his power, he gave his daughter in marriage to
Recimer. The strength of both the Roman empires was no)
employed against Genseric, but failed to deprive him of his naval mius, whom
supremacy. Recimer became jealous of Athemius, and es- and^utt^p
poused the interest of Olybrius, who had married the daughter oiybrius.
of the empress Eudoxia, — marched to Rome, took the city, and Recimer
delivered it up to pillage. He slew Athemius, and declared sacks Rome.
Olybrius emperor. Forty days after, Recimer died, and Italy His death,
rejoiced in the death of the tyrant.
16. Olybrius reigned but seven months. Two competitors
appeared, Glycerius, a Roman, and Julius Nepos, the go-
vernor of Dalmatia. Glycerius exchanged his crown for a Gj <*jfus
mitre, — Julius Nepos Avas received by the senate, and reigned and Julius
a year. Orestes, a Pannonian, who commanded the motley NeP°s-
army of barbarians who had enlisted in the Roman service, now
excited a rebellion among them. Nepos, on their approach to
Ravenna, retreated to Dalmatia, and Orestes proclaimed his son, 4^5.
Augustulus Romulus, emperor of the west. Orestes found ^omuius18
the power he had easily acquired for his son, not so easily sus- the last em-
tained. The barbarians who procured his elevation, not content PRo°me.
by the increase of their pay and privileges, required him to di-
vide among them a third of the lands of Italy. Orestes refused
to sacrifice the natives of the soil to their capricious demands. succeeded
Among them was the ambitious Odoacer, king of the Heruli, a by odoacer,
savage people who had migrated from the coast of the Baltic to awS0 takes'
Pannonia and Noricum. He led them to Rome, took and pil- the l.itle of
laged the city, — executed Orestes, and assumed the sovereign
power. Augustulus Romulus laid down his sceptre, and found
mercy in the camp of the Herulian chief. So passes from the
historic scene the last emperor of Rome.
17. It is a singular coincidence, that his name contains that
of the first king and founder of Rome, and also of the first em-
peror ; reminding us of the infancy, the maturity, and the fall 4^6.
of the empire. Odoacer was the first barbarian who reigned .Odoacer
over Italy under the name of king. The western empire, after
existing from the foundation of Rome, 1229 years, was now ex-
tinct ; while the eastern, at the period of their separation in the
like state of decay, continued nearly a thousand years longer.
15. What further did Count Recimer? — 16. What further changes oc-
curred to the time of the last emperor of Rome ? How did Augustulus Ro-
mulus gain, and how lose the imperial crown ? — IT. What singular coinci-
dence may we observe to aid the memory? What may we remark of
Odoacer ?
king of Italy.
CHAPTER II.
45r
Leo.
Times of
peace.
The Eastern or Byzantine Empire.
1. The stronger allurements which the Western empire of-
fered to the barbarians, and the subsidies paid by the emperors
of the East, preserved that portion in comparative tranquillity.
Arcadius, a weak and timid prince, was, at his death, succeeded
by his son Theodosius. He was a minor at the time of his
accession, and, during his whole reign, was subject to the
influence of his sister, Pulcheria. On his death she suc-
ceeded to the throne, and was the first female who swayed the
sceptre of the Roman empire. She was a princess of genius
and virtue. On her death the Theodosian family became extinct
in the east. Marcian, her husband, continued to reign with a
vigorous and prudent policy. Despising the miserable artifices
by which former emperors had purchased immunity from the
dreaded arms of the Huns, he stopped the payment of the sub-
sidies. The Huns menaced revenge ; but the death of Attila oc-
curring at this period, delivered the empire from the danger of
the threatened invasion. Leo, the successor of Marcian, was
emperor at the period of the destruction of the Western empire.
Zeno, Anastasius, and Justin, successively ascended the
throne, but left behind them no deed which should preserve
their names from oblivion.
2. Justinian, succeeded Justin. The kingdom of the Van-
dals in Africa, founded by Genseric, had become established.
Hilderic, grandson of Genseric, succeeded him. He was de-
posed by Gelimer. Justinian, desirous to recover the province,
affected to favor Hilderic, and sent Belisaritjs with an army
into Africa. He conquered the Vandals, reduced Carthage, and
took Gelimer, whom he carried to Constantinople, to grace his
triumph. As Hilderic had been executed, the race of Genseric
became extinct, and Africa now belonged to the Eastern em-
pire. Gelimer was seen in the triumphal procession of Belisa-
rius, arrayed in regal robes, and though he neither sighed or
wept, he was heard to murmur, " Vanity ! vanity ! all is vanity !"
Belisarius next marched to Italy, where he defeated the Ostro-
goths, subdued Italy and Sicily, and returned to Constantinople
with Vitiges, the Gothic king, in chains.
3. These successes awakened the jealousy of Chosroes,
reigning sovereign of Persia, who now renewed the war which
had been suspended by a truce. Belisarius was sent against him,
and the war was waged with various and alternate success, until
Chap. II. — 1. What preserved the Eastern empire in comparative tran-
quillity ? Give some account of Pulcheria. Of Marcian. What happened
in the reign of Leo ? Who were the next three of the emperors ? — 2. What
in the reign of Justinian was the condition of the Vandal empire in Africa ?
Give some account of the African war. Of the war with the Ostrogoths. —
3. Give some account of the Persian war.
180
JUSTINIAN. 181
the declining years of Justinian and Chosroes cooled their mi- Middle Hist.
litary ardor, and procured a further truce for fifty years. Beli- period ii.
sarius was next sent to Italy against the Goths, who had rebelled, chap. ii.
but being recalled through a jealousy which had arisen in the -~^v~^>
mind of the emperor, Narses, another lieutenant of Justinian, 553.
was substituted in his place, and effected their complete reduc- ^^en/^3
tion. After this final conquest of the Gothic kingdom, the the Gothic
government of Italy was administered by officers styled Exarchs, ita"ydTft°efr
who held their court at Ravenna, and were the representatives which is
j* .7. established
of the eastern emperor. the Exar.
4. The Bulgarians, aided by a multitude of barbarous Scla- chateofRa-
vonians, now crossed the Danube, ravaged Macedonia and
Thrace, and extended their devastations within a few miles of ««Kw
Constantinople. Belisarius met and defeated them. But this jvople'
was the last of his many victories ; and he who had so glo- defeaSSe
riously sustained the military fame of the empire, was doomed Bulgarians.
by regal ingratitude to pass his old age in penury and disgrace. Belisarius
5. While the arms of the empire had acquired glory abroad, in-treated-
the declining nation was still in distress. Constantinople was
distracted by factions. Earthquakes of unusual extent and du- earthquake,
ration spread desolation in different parts. Antioch, especially, ^««* de~
was almost wholly destroyed, and 250,000 persons were sup- TqlarieTlf
posed to have been buried in its ruins. A most dreadful pesti- a mifjfe *?
lence spread its ravages through the empire, and for a time its pe°P *'
virulence seemed undiminished by the change of seasons. At A fatai peg.
length its malignity abated, but for half a century, its presence tiience. Ten
° • j n, T n ,. i i • ,t thousand die
was in some degree lelt. in Constantinople, during three daily in one
months 5,000, and at last 10,000 persons are reported to have city-
died daily. Many cities of the east were depopulated, and
during the reign of Justinian, there was a visible diminution of HSinishCe
the human species.
6. Justinian derives his chief reputation from his system of
Roman jurisprudence. With the assistance of Tribonian, an ^e^act'8
eminent lawyer, he digested and simplified the mass of laws, yar.ee in ju-
which had been accumulating for ages ; and formed those bo- nsPrudence-
dies of law called The Justinian Code, the Pandects, and the
Institutes. This was the greatest work of the age, and forms
the foundation of the present civil law.
7. Justin II., who was nephew and successor to Justinian, 5?8.
was unequal to the weight of government, and associated with Justin ir.,
himself Tiberius, a man of surpassing merit, the captain of a"iuJn;"
the guards. The barbarian Lombards, under Alboin, conquered 5§«j.
the northern part of Italy, and established a kingdom to which Maurice.
they gave the name of Lombardy. By the nomination of the
worthy Tiberius, Maurice succeeded him. A revolution had irTpersia?
3. Of the war in Italy. What was established after the destruction of
the kingdom ? — £. Give an account of the last victory of Belisarius. Of
the treatment he received. — 5. What disasters occurred about this time. —
6. From what does Justinian derive his chief reputation? What are the
bodies of law digested by Tribonian called ? — T. Who were the successors
of Justinian ? Give an account of the rise of the Lombard power ? Who
was now the emperor ?
182
THE AVARS.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. II.
545-
The Avars
commence
>he Turkish
Empire.
Settle first
in Panno-
nia, now
Hungary.
Make war
upon the
empire.
602.
Phocas.
Suffering of
a Christian.
610..
The brutal
Phocas de-
posed by
Heraclius.
occurred in Persia. Hormouz had succeeded his father Chos-
roes, or Nourshirvan the Just ; but he was of an opposite cha-
racter. He had in Bahram a general of great talents and
ambition. Jn a fit of hasty displeasure Hormouz sent a present
of a woman's dress, a wheel and a distaff, to Bahram. He put
on the dress, and writh his presents in his hands, appeared be-
fore the army. The enraged soldiers, thus insulted in the
person of their commander, revolted, and deposed the foolish
monarch. His son Chosroes fled to Constantinople. Maurice
received him favorably, and despatched an army to Persia,
which subverted the power of Bahram, and placed him, as
Chosroes II., on the throne of his fathers.
8. The Avars, an Asiatic race, had fled from the victorious
arms of the Turks, or Turcomans. By union with the Lom-
bards, they had destroyed the Gepidae. After the Lombards
carried their arms and nation into Italy, the Avars settled in
Pannonia, which they had vacated, and extended their dominion
from the Euxine to the foot of the Alps. While the Persian
war employed the imperial arms in the eastythe Avars threatened
the empire from the north. As soon as the military force was
released from the Persian war, Maurice hastened to employ it
against these barbarians. His generals were ill selected, with
the exception of Priscus, who obtained several victories ; — but
the situation of the army and the empire rendered even his
victories unprofitable.
9. The emperor ordered the army to make the country of
the Avars their winter quarters. Already inclined to mutiny,
they now burst into open revolt, declared Maurice unworthy
of the crown, and elevated Phocas, an ignorant and brutal cen-
turion. The rebel army then hastened their return to Constan-
tinople. Maurice and liis family had fled to Chalcedon, whither
the cruel emissaries of Phocas followed. They compelled the
emperor to witness the successive murder of his five sons. The
agonized father uttered the ejaculation, " Thou art just, O Lord,
and thy judgments are righteous." Even amidst this dreadful
scene, his stern adherence to truth prevailed over natural affec-
tion. When the nurse by falsehood sought to preserve the life
of his infant, Maurice disclosed her design, and surrendered
his child.
10. An ignominious peace with the Avars was made by
Phocas, who found himself exposed at once to a revolt of the
province of Africa, and to the arms of Chosroes, who now
found, in the death of his benefactor, Maurice, a pretext for war.
He wrested from the empire many of its eastern fortresses,
and carried terror into Syria. Heraclius, son of the ex-
arch of Africa, who had never acknowledged the authority of
Phocas, advanced at the head of the African forces, and by
T. Give an account of the revolution in Persia. What part in it had
Maurice ? — H. Give an account of the Avars. Of the war with them. —
9. What further account can you give of Maurice ? What account can
you give of Phocas ? — 10. Give an account of Heraclius.
HERACLIUS. 183
a union with the disaffected, made himself master of Con- Middle mst.
stantinople, and deposed and executed the tyrant. Chosroes period ii.
made himself successively master of Antioch, Jerusalem, and chap. ii.
Alexandria; and while one division of his army extended v-**"'v'"v-'
his conquests to Tripoli, another marched to the Bosphorus, (Great
and, for ten years, lay encamped in the neighborhood of Con- the Persian
stantinople. The Avars renewed their hostilities, and encamped JJSrSSSS
their hosts along the plains of Thrace. Thus, on every side, elephants,
the speedy dissolution of the empire was threatened. cameis°j°his
11. In this extremity the funds of the church were appro- paiace'has
pnated to the service oi the empire, and an immense army was columns of
levied, while a large subsidy purchased, though it did not secure ^^'jjjjf
the neutrality of the Avars. Declining to engage the Persian globes of
army, which lay encamped opposite the city, Heraclius, master 5S$ejS the
of the sea, transported his forces to the confines of Syria and heavenly
Cilicia, and pitched his camp near Issus, on the ground where The° patriot-
Alexander had vanquished Darius. Here, secure from attack, ism of the
he organized and disciplined his troops. The Persians repaired
to Cilicia; and Heraclius drew them into an engagement, and
defeated them.
12. In the next campaign, Heraclius passed the Black Sea, Heraclius
and traversed the mountains of Armenia. He penetrated into the pjrsia*
heart of Persia, to compel Chosroes to recall his armies for the while. Chos-
defence of his own kingdom. The Persian king, however, constanti-
still maintained an army in the vicinity of Constantinople, to n°Ple-
second the operations of the treacherous Chagan, or chief of
the Avars, who, regardless of the subsidy he had received as
the price of his neutrality, had entered into an alliance with the
Persians. A host of Avars, Gepidae, Russians, Bulgarians, and
Sclavonians, now besieged Constantinople, but were repulsed;
while the Persians, on the opposite side of the Bosphorus, be-
held their discomfiture, without being able to render them any
assistance. 621?.
13. Heraclius had, meantime, strengthened his army by an nineveh.
alliance with the Turks. A memorable battle was fought at ^f^f^s
Nineveh, in which the Roman arms triumphed. Chosroes the Turks)
was shortly after assassinated by his son Siroes, who con- SStfthe
eluded a peace with the Romans, in which he relinquished the Persians,
conquests of his father; and Heraclius withdrawing his forces PeaCe with
from the kingdom, returned to his capital in triumph. Persia.
lO. What parts of the empire are conquered by Chosroes ? What other
enemies are in the field? — 11. What was done in this extremity ? What
course was taken by Heraclitus ? Relate the battle of Issus. — 12. Where
did Heraclitus go the next campaign ? Where did Chosroes keep an army ?
By what host was Constantinople besieged ? Was it taken ? — 13. With
what nation did the Greek emperor form an alliance ? Relate the battle of
Nineveh and its results.
church.
ISSUS.
CHAPTER III.
The nations formed on the ruins of the Roman Empire.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. III.
A. C.
14©
to
17©.
2d migra-
tion.
Death of
Aurelius.
Rome loses
Dacia and
all north of
the Danube.
402.
3rd migra-
tion.
The king-
dom of the
Visigoths in
Spain.
409.
4th migra-
Rome loses
Spain, Gaul
and Africa.
1. The overthrow of the Roman empire, and of ancient
civilisation, was brought about by the barbarians of the north ;
and the new kingdoms formed, owed their origin to the same
cause. To assist the memory, we shall' recall in a connected
view the seven great migrations of the German nations"
into the Roman empire. The first migration occurred before
Christ. The Cimbrians and Teutones migrated towards Rome,
desiring places to settle. They crossed Helvetia, and were joined
by the Celtic and Helvetic tribes, surmounted the Alps, and
in the valley of the Po spread death and consternation. They
defeated, in three successive campaigns, the Roman armies under
the consuls. At length the reluctant senate sent to meet them
Caius Marius. He twice defeated them ; their last and final
defeat being at Verona.
2. The second migration occurred in the reign of Marcus
Aurelius Antoninus. The empire was then invaded by a con-
federacy of the Suevi, Quadi, Marcomanni, Vandals and other
European tribes, with several from Sarmatia, of whom were
the Jazyges from the Dnieper, the Roxalani and the Alani. The
emperor strove against them, and finally lost his life in the
contest. His successor ceded to them Dacia, and all north
of the Danube. The Goths and the Chatti, who then inhabited
the banks of the Vistula and Oder, moved south, and pressed
forward the Marcomanni upon Illyria and Aquileia. The Ro-
mans artfully divided the league, and made peace with each
separately ; but they broke their treaties, and lost the respect
of the barbarians.
3. In the third migration, the Goths settled by permission
south of the Danube. Alaric spent five years in disciplining
his army according to Roman tactics — then left Illyria ; and
at Verona, where Caius Marius was once victor, Stilicho (a
Vandal) conquered Alaric. Subsequently he returned, and
his Goths took Rome. Then, after burying him in the bed
of a stream, Adolphus turned westward, and expelling the
Suevi, founded the kingdom of the Visigoths in Spain. In
the fourth migration, the Suevi, under Hermeric, and the
Vandals, under Gonderic, went by the invitation of Gerontius,
the treacherous Roman governor, into Spain. That province
was thus lost to the Roman empire. Other portions of the
same tribes, with the Burgundians, took possession of Gaul.
Chap. III. — 1. What is attributed to the barbarians of the north ? How
many great migrations of the German barbarous nations are reckoned ?
Relate the first migration. — 2. Give an account of the second. — 3. Of the
third. Of the fourth.
184
HENGIST.
185
The Vandals in Spain, under Genseric, crossed into Africa,
and thus was Rome dismembered in the west and south.
4. The fifth migration is that into Britain of the German na-
tions on the opposite or eastern coast of the North Sea. By
this the kingdom of the Anglo-Saxons, in England, was esta-
blished. As it is these nations, together with the Roman Britons,
whose language and blood are our own, a more particular
account will follow. Theodoric the Great led the sixth mi-
gration, by which the kingdom of the Heruli in Italy was sub-
verted, and that of the Ostrogoths established. Alboin, at the
head of the Lombards, in the seventh migration, established the
kingdom of Lombardy, north of the Po.
5. BRITAIN. — When Alaric, with his Goths, threatened
Rome, Stilicho withdrew the legion from Britain which guarded
the wall of Severus. The warlike barbarians to the north of
the wall — the Scots, said to have migrated from Ireland — the
Picts and the Jutes, tribes from the peninsula of Jutland, in-
vaded and distressed the Britons. They applied to Honorius
to protect them, and once or twice that emperor sent some feeble
aid ; but at length he wrote to them, absolving them from their
allegiance, and exhorting them to defend themselves. The
flower of their youth had been withdrawn, and had fallen in the
battles of the empire, — and relying on the Romans, the Britons
had sunk into effeminate dependence. Left to themselves, they
disagreed in the election of a sovereign, but at length fixed
on Vortigern. Their enemies were at their doors, and peo-
ple and king agreed on the dangerous experiment of asking
foreign aid. At their request, 1500 Saxons from the mouth of
the Elbe appeared in three galleys, at the island of Thane t,
under the brothers Hengist and Horsa. Vortigern took them
into his pay, when they proceeded against the Caledonians,
whom they defeated at Stamford.
6. The Saxons, however, demanded a stronger force; and next
arrived sixteen ships, containing, besides Saxons and Danes,
a portion of another tribe, the Angles, from whom England
derives its name. In this fleet came Rowena, the beautiful
niece of Hengist, whom Vortigern married. The Caledonians
were driven out, but still the Saxons continued to draw over
large numbers of their countrymen. Vortigern lost his influ-
ence, and was compelled to submit to his son Vortimer. The
Britons finding the Saxons appropriating the island, endeavored
to drive them out, but without success. Hengist made himself
king of Kent, which was the first kingdom of the seven or eight
which the Saxons founded.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. III.
428.
Honorius
abandons
Britain.
Vortigern
made king.
449.
Hengist and
Horsa.
Horsa dies
Saxons ar-
rive at Ab-
besfleet, in
the isle of
Thanet.
STAM-
FORD.
They defeat
the Picts
and Scots.
450.
16 ships.
The Anglo-
Saxon emi-
gration.
455.
The king-
doms of the
Heptarchy
are forming.
4r. Relate the fifth migration. Relate the sixth migration. The seventh. — ■
5. On what occasion did the Romans withdraw from Britain the northern
defences ? At what time, and by whom were the Bri tains absolved from
their allegiance to Rome ? Who was Vortigern? What was done in con-
sequence of an invitation from him and his people ? What was done by the
Saxons ? — 6. Who came with the sixteen ships ? When the Britons found
that the Saxons were appropriating the island, what was done ? Give a
farther account of Hengist.
24
186 THE SAXON HEPTARCHY.
Middle Hist. 7. Hengist destroyed many of trie nobles, and was feared
period ii. f°r his valor and cruelty. His niece, at his instigation, poisoned
chap. in. Vortimer, her son-in-law. The Britons then raised to the chief
^^-v-w command, King Arthur, a native prince, the sovereign of
The famous Cornwall and Devon, who, with his knights, performed prodi-
withhis gies of unavailing valor. Before the Saxon kingdoms were
"the'found* established, occurred one hundred and thirty-five years of dis-
tabie." tressing warfare. The Saxons remained in possession of all the
48S. ^ cultivated parts of South Britain, while the unhappy 'natives
in Kent, were driven to the mountains of Wales and Cornwall, and to
Shad been^n ^ie district along the north-east coast of the island. During
Britain 39 these disastrous wars, a fart of the Britons passed over to the
^KentM? continent, and settled in the Gallic province of Jirmorica, to
which they gave the name of Bretagne or Brittany.
8. Kingdoms of the Saxon Heptarchy, or Octarchy.
from to 1. Kent. — Comprising Kent and a part of Surrey. Hengist, the
454-823. first king, was said to be descended from Odin, or
Woden, the war-god of the Scandinavians.
499-721. 2. Sussex, (South Saxons.) — Sussex and a part of Surrey.
509- 3. Wessex, (West Saxons.) — Founded by Cerdic, a Saxon
general, from whom the Saxon kings of England are
descended. King Arthur, with his knights, fought this
419-590. general, and at Baden Hill, near Bath, defeated him,
killing, it is said, four hundred with his own hand !
530-823. 4. Essex, (East Saxons.)— Middlesex and London.
54T-559. |^5 ("5. Bernicia. — Northumberland, Durham, and a portion of
|p! Scotland. This kingdom was founded by Ina,
||? | a reputed descendant of Odin.
560- !"o[8. Deira. — Lancashire, York. Founded by Ella.
5T5- 7. East-Anglia. A small part of the eastern coast, called
also Angle-land, from whence the name, England.
The Saxons unanimously agreed to give this name to
the country.
586- 8. Murcia. — Formed of a part of Deira, — the last established.
9. The monarchies of the Heptarchy were rather elective than
hereditary ; the king's power was little, only as he carried out
690. the wishes of his nobles and people, who held councils called
gemot. e" Wit all, or Wittegemot. Ina, king of the West Saxons, was the
first to assemble this body, which is considered the germ of the
British parliament. It appears also, that these kingdoms held
themselves bound by a species of undefined confederacy ; and
jQft one °f ^ie sovereigns presided over the whole, whose office
First Bret- was called Bretwalda. The first Bretwalda was Hengist, the
third Ethelbert, king of Kent, who subdued some of the
other kingdoms ; and the seventh and last was Oswy, of North-
1. What was done by Rowena? Who was Arthur ? How many years
were there of war ? Whither were the inhabitants driven ? — 8. What were
the kingdoms of the Heptarchy, or Octarchy ? — 9. Give an account of the
government of the Saxons. What persons having the office of Bretwalda
are named ?
walda.
THE MEROVINGIAN DYNASTY. 187
umberland. So complete was the sway of the Saxons in the *ggfe Hut.
island, that their language became in a great degree that of the period ii.
whole people. Perhaps three-fourths of the words in common
use in the English language are of Saxon origin. It was during
the Heptarchy that Christianity was introduced into England
by Augustine.
10. FRANCE-— The Franks were also an association of the
warlike tribes of Germany. They derived their name, which
signifies freemen, from their love of liberty. They made con-
quests in Gaul, in the third century, and were governed by chiefs «*& martyr,
or kings of the family of Merovius. His grandson, Clovis, *jjs60
was chief of a tribe called the Saltan, and the founder of the 4^j>
French monarchy. When the Western empire was subverted Ckxw.
by the barbarians, Gaul was at the time divided between the (From the
Visigoths, the Eurgundians, and the Romans. Syagrils, the comes the'
Roman commander in Gaul, had, in the declining days of the ^ich^ro-
Roman empire, thrown off his allegiance, and established an in- bibita a
dependent government. Clovis took arms against him, defeated ^^minea
him at Soissons, and subjected the Roman provinces of Gaul to sovereign.)
the swav of the Franks. *JS£«
11. He next engaged in war with the Jilemanni, an independ-
ent German nation, and defeated them in a great battle. In the ^96-
course of the engagement, his troops were ready to give way. ciovia de-
Clovis invoked the God of Clotilda, a Christian princess of *Jfte
Burgundy, whom he had married. Rallying his troops to the
charge, he obtained the victor}', embraced Christianity, and was ^S^^
baptized at Rheims. i; Bend thy head, proud barbarian,'1 said £beias».
St. Reni, the bishop, as Clovis approached the sacred font. The
conversion of the monarch was followed by that of great num-
bers of his subjects. His alliance, by marriage, with the Bur-
gundians, secured their friendship; while his embracing the
Catholic Athanasian faith, insured the powerful support of the
clergy of Gaul, and afforded the subtle monarch an opportunity
of turning their influence to advantage, in a war upon Alaeic
II., king of the Gallic Visigoths, who held the Arian tenets, to
which the clergy of Gaul were vehemently opposed. The
armies of the Visigoths and Franks encountered each other in tiers.
battle, near Poictiers. Alaric was slain, his forces defeated, and 2JS A\
the provinces of Jlquitaine and Thoulause were added to the Mia Alaric.
kingdom of the Franks.
12. On the death of Clovis, hi3 extensive dominions were ■ ^h,x _
divided between his four sons. During the reign of these bro- vis present a
thers, the dominion of the Franks was extended over Burgundy. JSffif
Trie annals of the kingdom present an unvarying scene of en- discord.
10. Who were the Frank3 ? From whom is their first dynasty named?
Whaf is meant by the Salic law ? (Examine the 3ide notes.; Give an ac-
count of Clovis. How was Gaul divided? What did Clovis obtain by the
battle of Soisson3? — 11. Give an account of his conversion to Christianity.
B f ; means did he gain the clergy of Gaul to aid him against Alaric ?
Relate the battle of Poictiers and its consequences, — 12. What happened
on the death of Clovis ?
188
THEODORIC THE GREAT.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. III.
395
to
402.
Extent of
the kingdom
of the Suevi
and
Vandals.
The Visi-
goths
overpower
them.
Ostrogoths
overpower-
ed by Attila.
Revolt and
are allied to
the Romans.
493.
Theodoric
the Great,
educated at
Constanti-
nople,
founds in
Italy the
kingdom
of the
Ostrogoths.
Wise regu-
lations of
Theodoric.
Boethius put
to death.
mity, contention, violence, and bloodshed. Clotaire, the
youngest of the four, finally reunited the nation under his sway.
On his death, the kingdom was again divided between his four
sons, and this second division was followed by crimes even
more aggravated and horrid than the first. The death of these
four princes, left Clotaire II., grandson of the former monarch
of that name, undisputed sovereign of France.
13. SPAIN. — TheSuevi and Vandals carried destruction over
this nourishing portion of the Roman empire. Their monarchy
at one period, extended from the Loire to Gibraltar, but the con-
quests of Clovis wrested from them the greater portion of their
possessions in France. The Vandals, under Genseric, founded
a new kingdom in Africa. Adolphus, whose marriage with
Placidia was celebrated at Narbonne, proceeded to the conquest
of this monarchy, and made a triumphal entry into Barcelona.
Of his successors, Theodoric was slain at Chalons; — Euric
became entirely independent of the Romans, and hence is re-
garded as the real founder of the Gothic monarchy in Spain.
14. ITALY. — In Italy was founded the kingdom of the Os-
trogoths. This nation, subdued by the Huns, followed the
standard of Attila in his invasion of the Roman empire. On his
death they threw off their allegiance to the Huns, and by arms
established their independence. Theodoric, the son of their
monarch, was given as a hostage to Zeno, the emperor of the
east, with whom the Ostrogoths formed an alliance. Theodo-
ric was a youth of talents, ambition and courage ; and after a re-
sidence of some years at the Byzantine court, he returned to
his nation elevated above his rude subjects, The emperor
Zeno, to divert the Gothic arms from his own dominions, gave
Theodoric the kingdom of Italy, which Odoacer had wrested
from the Romans. Theodoric defeated Odoacer, and established
the kingdom of the Ostrogoths, upon the ruins of that of the
Heruli.
15. Theodoric reigned thirty-three years. Under his govern-
ment Italy was in a state of comparative peace. The Romans
or Italians were left in possession of two-thirds of the lands,
while the remainder was divided among the Goths. The Italians
retained their laws, customs, dress, language, personal freedom,
and had the civil administration. Theodoric executed Bcethius,
the last Roman orator, on the alleged charge of treason against
the Gothic government ; for which he was visited with remorse.
He left no son, but on his death-bed he commended to the no-
bles his daughter Amalasontha, and her son, then ten years
of age. The son soon died with disease, and the mother, after
some years of able administration, was killed. Thudat suc-
12. On the death of Clotaire ? — 13. What barbarians wrested Spain
from the Roman empire ? What was the northern boundary of their king-
dom ? The southern ? By whom were the Suevi and Vandals overpower-
ed ? What kingdom was established in Spain and the south of Gaul? — 11:.
Give some account of the Ostrogoths. Of Theodoric. — 15. What division
of land and civil power did he make ? Who succeeded him ?
ORIGIN OF THE TURKS. 189
ceeded, who was soon displaced to make room for Vitiges. jjjjjjjj* Hist-
Belisarius then conquered the kingdom, and carried Vitiges cap- period ii.
tive to Constantinople. When Belisarius left Italy, the Goths re- chap. hi.
volted, and proclaimed for their king Totila, a brave and war-
like prince. Him Narses defeated and slew; and Italy was
annexed to the Eastern empire.
36. After the destruction of the kingdom of the Ostrogoths,
the Eastern empire was ruled, as formerly, by the Exarchs of
Ravenna. Their peace was disturbed by the ferocious Lorn- Lombards
bards, and their king Alboin. To the weak and often-con- AjMon.
quered Italians, Alboin was invincible, and with hardly an effort,
he made himself master of the greater part of Italy. But his
reign was short. His wife, Rosamond, was a princess of the
Gepidas, whose father Alboin murdered. He then compelled
her to drink from a cup made of her father's skull. She avenged
the abominable act, by the death of her odious tyrant.
17. THE TURKS. — The original seat of the Turks was Origin of the
among the Altai mountains, in the interior of Asia. The race Turks-
had been slaves to the Khan of Tartary, by whom they
were employed in the manufacture of iron, of which great quan-
tities were found among their native mountains. Leaders at
length arose among these slaves, who induced them to throw
off their allegiance to their masters. At different times they
invaded China and Persia, and showed themselves dangerous
enemies. In the wars of Heraclius, the Turks rendered him
essential service. Their empire extended itself by degrees over
the northern parts of Asia; while on the south their conquests
included the nation of the White Huns, who possessed the cities
of Bucharia and Samarcand.
16. Who founded the kingdom of the Lombards, and what was his cha-
racter ? What revolting act of his caused his death ? — IT. Give some ac-
count of the Turks.
WS&
Mahomet relates his Dream to his Friends
PEKIOD III
THE ARABIAN"?
THE CORONATION
622,
TO
800.
OR FLIGHT OF
MAHOMET,
OF CHARLEMAGNE.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
CHAPTER I,
Mahomet and his Religion.
1. Mahomet is one of the most remarkable men, and alto- jgg *R*t.
gether the most successful impostor, who appears on the page
of history. He was born in Mecca, and was a descendant of
one of the most powerful families in Arabia. Early left an or-
phan, he was indebted for support to the kindness of an
uncle, Abu Taleb ; who, to instruct him in the business of a
merchant, took him when only thirteen into Syria. He remained
with his uncle until the age of twenty-five, when he engaged in
the service of Khadijah, a rich widow of Mecca, whom he sub-
sequently married, and thereby became one of the richest men
of his native city. In his fortieth year he opened his alleged
mission ; having by previous sanctity and solitary watching in a
cave prepared the minds of his family to receive it. To Kadi-
jah he first imparted the story; declaring that the angel Gabriel
had appeared to him in the cave, and told him that he was the
chosen apostle of God. To love is to trust, and Khadijah believed
her husband and rejoiced in his glory. Mahomet's next disciples
were Zeid, his servant, Ali his cousin, and Abu Beker his friend.
Period III. — Chap. I. — 1. Give some account of Mahomet and of his
parentage. Who was his early protector ? Who was Kadijah ? At what
age, and how, did Mahomet open his alleged mission? How did Kadijah
receive his declaration of a divine mission ? Who were his next followers ?
191
Mahomet's
first
disciples.
192
MAHOMET.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
609.
The Koran,
the Maho-
metan scrip-
tures
Reasons for
believing
that Maho-
met wrote
the Koran
himself.
Mahomet's
first preach-
ing to his
relatives.
2. It is probable that the great mind of Mahomet was from
his youth teeming with his mighty plan ; and that he pursued it
in the deep silence of his own heart, many years before he
began to develope it in action ; — gathering information on every
subject connected with it, and educating himself in secrecy.
Acquainted with the Jewish and Christian systems, he followed
them in the ideas which he inculcated of the Supreme Being.
He acknowledged the veracity of their histories, the truth of
their miracles, and the divine character of their teachers. His
system, he declared, was the perfecting of theirs, he being the
Comforter promised by Christ. He spent much time in his cave,
and thence issued with the chapters of the Koran, one by one pro-
duced, and declared to have been received from the angel Gabriel.
3. These productions are works of genius ; and as Mahomet
professed himself illiterate, they appeared as miraculous evidence
of the truth of his apostleship. Some suppose he kepi; a monk
concealed who wrote them for him. It is far more probable
that his time in the cave was spent in studies which he concealed
from every eye, and that he thus became master of language, and
wrote the Koran himself. He was forty before he opened his
mission. He, who was wise enough to know that the faith of
his wife was of the first consequence to his success, would be
too wise to give himself a master, in any man who would be able
at any moment to expose his imposture, or to put an end to it
by withholding his assistance. The style of the Koran corre-
sponds to that of Mahomet's words and actions ; and if another
man of genius had been engaged in getting up the deception, he
would have appeared to claim his share in the rewards of suc-
cess. For these reasons, we believe that the Koran was both
planned and executed by Mahomet himself.
4 After three years labor, Mahomet had only fourteen prose-
lytes. He then invited his numerous relatives to a feast, and
told them that the Almighty had commissioned him to call them
to him. He offered them present and future happiness, and en-
quired who would be his vicar. An rose up, amidst the laughter
of the company, and sternly accepted the office. Now, said they,
jeeringly to Abu Taleb, the father of Ali, "You must obey your
son." Still there were those in whom Mahomet's earnest man-
ner and good character produced conviction. He then began
to preach openly to the people, and incensed them by upbraid-
ing them with their idolatry and crimes. His uncle Abu Taleb
remonstrated in displeasure, and advised him to cease. " Not,"
said Mahomet, " if you set the sun against me on the one hand,
and the moon on the other." Thus the grandeur of his genius
2. What is probable concerning Mahomet's deep designs ? What did he
acknowledge concerning the Jewish and Christian religion ? In what man-
ner and with what declaration did he bring forward the Koran ? — 3. What rea-
sons does your author give for believing that Mahomet wrote the Koran
himself? — 4\ What was his first progress in making proselytes ? Relate
his first preaching to his assembled relatives. How did they receive it ?
What passed between him and his uncle, and on what occasion ?
THE HEGIRA.
193
sustained him, and .though he made many enemies, he gained a
few sincere followers. He next took the bold measure of as-
serting that he had been favored with an entrance into the hea-
vens, where on the throne of God was written, " There is no
God but God, and Mahomet is his prophet." This became
afterwards the creed of his followers. The marvellous tales
which he related shocked the faith of many who had before
been his disciples; but while some laughed, and some mocked
with bitter irony, others believed, and thus became the tools
and dupes of him who deceived them.*
5. The powerful tribe of Koreish were Mahomet's inveterate
foes; and they treated his followers so rudely, that he led them
forth for a time, but returned. His last flight was to save his.
life. Accompanied by his friend, Abu Beker, and two other per-
sons, he hasted secretly to Medina. This was Mahomet's
lowest, point of depression, and is made the era of his followers.
His reception at Medina was the renewal of his hopes. The
various tribes and inhabitants of Arabia were accustomed to
pay their annual devotions in the Caaba or temple of Mecca.
In their pilgrimages there, many of the citizens of Medina had
listened to the eloquence of Mahomet, and become converts to
his religion. He was now, in his distress, received by them
with enthusiasm. Five hundred citizens advanced to meet him ;
the people unanimously embraced his faith, and swore allegiance
to his person. Mahomet had, up to this time, propagated his
religion peaceably. If they would not hear him, that, he said,
was the affair of him who sent him, not his own. But now
that Mahomet felt his power, he pretended to a new command.
This proves the selfish, wickedness of his imposture. God had
now, he averred, directed him to propagate his religion by the
sword ; and the false prophet, at this time, promised a sensual
paradise to those who died fighting in his cause.
6. The first military exploits of Mahomet and his followers
were to intercept the caravans of Mecca, engaged in the Syrian
trade. Abu Sophian, the head of the Koreishites, and the
mortal foe of Mahomet, on returning from Syria with a wealthy
caravan, was attacked ; and by Mahomet's personal intrepidity,
* The angel Gabriel, Mahomet said, came spreading seventy pair of wings,
and bringing for his accommodation the milk-white mule Alborak. The
wonders of his journey were manifold. One will serve as a specimen.
Among the varieties of angels, he saw one in the form of a cock, his feet
standing on the first heavens, and his head reaching to the second, five hun-
dred days' journey above, as men travel. When the Almighty sang his
morning hymn, this angel-cock always crowed so loud, that he was heard
throughout the whole universe except by men and fiends.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
Mahomet
marries
Ayesha, the
young
daughter of
Abu Beker.
July 16,
622.
The Flight,
or Hegira.
Mahomet
shows the
wickedness
of his
imposture^
Military ex-
ploits of
Mahomet-
4r. What pretence did he next boldly make? How was this received ? —
5. What tribe were the false prophet's foes? What was Mahomet forced
to do ? What and when was his lowest point of depression ? What is this
point of time made ? What proved the renewal of his hopes ? Relate his
reception at Medina. How had Mahomet up to this time propagated his re-
ligion ? What new command did he now pretend to have received ? — 6.
What were the first military exploits of Mahomet and his followers ? Who
was Abu Sophian ?
25
194
THE FORMATION OF THE MOSLEM EMPIRE.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
628-
Mahomet
enters
Mecca.
632.
Death of
Mahomet.
Extent of his
empire.
Arabs rebel
*and are
subdued.
(Sara-,
cen, de-
rived from
Sarra, an
Arabian
word signi-
fying desert.
The
earliest fol-
lowers of
Mahomet
were Sara-
cens. Maho-
met called
his religion
Islam, i- e.
submission
to the will
of God,
"Moslem,"
or Mussel-
mans, signi-
fying "the
sacred.")
Omar suc-
ceeds Abu
Beker.
Syria con-
quered-
defeated. The following year Abu Sophian attacked Medina
with 10,000 men of various nations. Divisions were excited
among the discordant tribes, and a tempest adding to their dis-
tress, Medina was saved. Mahomet's arms were next directed
against Mecca, but the Koreishites defended it. A treaty was
concluded by which hostilities were to be suspended for ten
years, and the prophet was permitted to enter his native city as
a pilgrim. His imposing entrance into the city — his devotion
and eloquence, produced the conversion of multitudes. The
truce was broken, Mahomet was victorious and entered Mecca as
a conqueror. The citizens embraced his religion, and were par-
doned for past offences. The submission of Mecca resulted in
that of all the neighboring tribes. The idols were now every
where destroyed, and the faith of Mahomet was established
throughout Arabia. At the age of sixty-three, the false prophet
died, having spread the terror of his name from the Euphrates
to the Red Sea.
7. Abu Beker, his friend, was chosen as his successor, re-
ceiving the title of caliph or lieutenant. The Arabian tribes
were unused to subjection, and on the death of Mahomet they
rebelled, but were again reduced to submission; and the ca-
liph's lieutenant, Caleb, called by the Arabians the " Sword of
God," conquered apart of Persia. Abu Obeidah, another of
the Saracen commanders, conducted an army into Syria, where
he met and defeated a formidable force sent by the emperor He-
raclius to the defence of the province. The Saracens then in-
vested Damascus, which, seeing no hope of succor, capitulated.
Abu Obeidah' permitted the Christians of that city to depart into
exile ; but after three days, Caled, led by an apostate Christian,
pursued the fugitives, overtook them, and gave them up to in-
discriminate slaughter.
8. Omar succeeded Abu Beker in the caliphate. Being in-
formed by the aged and dying caliph that he was to be his
successor, Omar said : " I do not want the place." " But," said
Abu Beker, " the place wants yom" During the first years of
the reign of Omar, the Syrian war was prosecuted ; and succes-
sive victories increased the enthusiasm, and augmented the num-
bers of the faithful. Damascus, Heliopolis, Jerusalem, Aleppo,
and Antioch, successively fell before the Saracens; and in seven
years after the death of the prophet, the whole province of Syria
was added to the empire of the Saracens. In Persia they
passed the Tigris and took Ctesiphon, when Yezdegerd, the
Persian monarch, fled for protection to the Turks.
9. The invasion of Egypt succeeded. The rapid success of
the Mahometans in this province was in a degree owing to the
6. Relate Abu Sophian's attack on Medina. Relate Mahomet's return
to Mecca. How was Mahomet's religion extended soon after? How far
at his death? — T. Give an account of Mahomet's successor. What war
was carried on in Syria? — 8. Who succeeded Abu Beker? What places
had the Saracens conquered in seven years from Mahomet's death ? What
was their progress in Persia ?
THE CALIPHATE.
195
divisions and hatred existing among the different Christian sects
at this period. The emperor of the east had persecuted a large
portion of his Egyptian subjects, who welcomed the Moslems
as deliverers. Memphis submitted without resistance, and
Alexandria* was taken after a siege of fourteen months. The
great library of that enlightened city was destroyed. The caliph,
when petitioned to spare it, replied, " If these writings of the
Greeks agree with the Koran, they are useless, and need not be
preserved ; if they disagree with it, they are pernicious, and
ought to be destroyed." In the reign of the succeeding caliph,
Othman, the Saracens extended their conquests into the pro-
vince of Africa.
10. Dissensions now arose among the Moslems with respect
to the rightful succession to the caliphate. An insurrection re-
sulted in the assassination of Othman ; and Ali, the cousin of
Mahomet, and one of his first four proselytes, was now elected to
the office. The pretensions of Ali, who married Fatima, a
daughter of the prophet, and of his descendants, the Fatimites,
are the origin of the discord which has ever existed between
the Persians and the Turks, who had now become Mahome-
tans ; the former espousing the interests of Ali, and the latter
maintaining the equal sanctity of the three preceding caliphs.
On the accession of Ali, the sceptre of the caliphs extended over
the kingdoms of Persia, Syria, Arabia and Egypt. Tezdegerd,
the last of the Persian monarchs, made an ineffectual attempt to
recover his dominions, but betrayed by a servant, and deserted
by his allies, he was slain in attempting to escape ; and the reli-
gion of the Magi was thenceforth displaced by that of Mahomet.
11. The empire of the Saracens began to be weakened by in-
ternal dissensions and civil wars. Ali, though not engaged in
the assassination of Othman, reaped the advantages derived from
his death. Mo a wi yah, son of Abu Sophian, of the family of
Ommiyah, to cover his own ambitious purposes, undertook to
* The literature and science of the world had for several ages its chief seat
in Alexandria. To the Alexandrian school, the noble youth of the most re-
fined countries repaired for instruction. Theon, a president of this school,
had a daughter, Hypatia, whom he found possessed of so extraordinary a
genius, that he gave her great advantages; and she became, in philosophy,
geometry, astronomy, and mathematics, the most learned person of her age.
On her father's death she was promoted to succeed him in the presi-
dency. The flower of all the youth of Europe, Asia, and Africa, sat at
the feet of this beautiful instructress, greedily receiving learning and philo-
sophy from her mouth. Her moral life was pure and blameless ; but a party
of the people, in the interest of Cyril the patriarch, becoming enraged with
Orestes the governor, who was the friend of Hypatia, they tore her from her
chair and brutally murdered her; (415,) when the school was discontinued.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
655-
Ali and the
Fatimites.
Extent of
the
caliphate.
Religion of
the Magi
displaced by
Mahomet-
anism.
Constantine
shut up this
school ; Ju-
lian re-
opened it.
Afterwards
Theon and
Hypatia fill
the chair.
415.
9. Why were the Egyptian subjects of the Greek emperor not attached
to his government ? What was the progress of the Saracen arms among
the cities ? What became of the great Alexandrian library ? What had
Alexandria been for some ages past? What remarkable woman flourished
there ? (See note.) What conquest was begun in the reign of Othman ? —
10. Relate the manner of the accession of Ali. What dissension arose re-
specting the succession to the caliphate ? How far did the caliphate now
extend ? Give some account of Yezdegerd.— 11 . Who was Moawiyah ?
196
THE MOST IMPORTANT BATTLE RECORDED.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
Moyawiyah
the first of
the Om-
miyades suc-
ceeds on the
murder of
AM
661
The Moors
of Africa
submit to
the Sara-
cens.
709.
711.
Spain in-
vaded.
713.
XERES.
The Maho-
metans es-
tablish their
empire over
that of the
Visigoths in
Spain.
714.
TOURS.
Chas. Mar-
tel, in a
great battle,
totally de-
feats the
Saracens
with the
enormous
loss of
350,000.
avenge it. Amon, the viceroy of Egypt, espoused his cause,
Moawiyah was declared caliph at Damascus, and at the head
of a large army marched against Ali. After a sanguinary con-
flict, in which many thousand Moslems perished, a truce was
effected between the rival caliphs. Meantime some enthusiasts
in the temple at Mecca planned the deliverance of the nation
from these evils. Assassins were despatched to procure the
death of Ali, Moawiyah, and Amon. Ali was murdered, while
Moawiyah and Amon escaped. Moawiyah succeeded to the
caliphate, which was now changed into an hereditary office.
12. During the reign of the Ommiyadesjthe lieutenants of the
caliphs penetrated the deserts of Africa, and extended to Mount
Atlas the terror of their arms. The Moorish tribes along the
coast, after a short resistance, were conquered, converted, and
adopted into the Arabian family.
13. The Goths of Spain were in possession of the garrison
of Ceuta, on the African side of the straits. Here the Saracens
were at first repulsed, but at length Count Julian, commander
of the garrison, becoming a traitor, put them in possession of
the fortress, and instigated them to the invasion of the Gothic
kingdom of Spain. The obscure race of kings, who held sway
over the monarchy founded by Adolphus in Spain, presents no
name worthy of mention in history. A civil war had enabled
Roderick, a noble Goth, to dethrone Witerza, the lawful
king, and usurp the crown. It was at this period that the Sa-
racens entered Spain. In a decisive battle at Xeres, in Andalu-
sia, they established the Mahometan dominion. The princes
and friends of Witerza's family revolted, and joined the Maho-
metans ; and Roderick, "the last of the Goths," was drowned in
the Guadalquivir. The Goths submitted to the victor, but being
Christians, were allowed the enjoyment of their own religion.
The dominion of the Saracens extended from the Mediter-
ranean to the Pyrenees. Pelagius, a member of the royal
family, finding it impossible to resist the conquerors, retired
with a band of followers to the mountains of Asturias, where
he established an independent Christian kingdom.
14. The Arabian victors advanced beyond the Pyrenees, bent
on the entire conquest of Europe. The valiant Charles
Martel, of France, took the field against them. An ever me-
morable battle was fought near Tours, where an immense mul-
titude were slain. The Saracens retired to Spain, and it is a
remarkable fact, that they made no further attack upon the
northern nations.
15. In pursuing the victorious course of the Arabs westward,
11 . Between what parties was a sanguinary battle fought? How did Ali
come by his death? Who suceeeded, and what changes occurred? — 12.
What occurred during the reign of the Ommiyades? — 13. Give some ac-
count of the Saracen invasion of Spain. Who was Roderick? Witerza? Who
were the parties in the battle of Xeres ? What happened to Roderick after
his defeat ? How far did the Saracen empire in Europe now extend ? What
place, however, did they fail to conquer ? — 14. On what were the Saracens
now bent ? Relate where, and by whom, they received a memorable check.
EUROPE PRESERVED FROM THE MOSLEMS. 197
we have passed by the attempts made, under the caliph Moya- mmm* Hut.
wiyah, upon Constantinople. The Moslems attacked it in the perpd in,
summer, and retreated in the winter, for five successive years, chap. i.
At length the Greek fire was invented by Callinicus, of Helio- v*-^~s^>w'
polis, and brought by him tc Constantinople. It was a compo- 661.
sition of naphtha, pitch, and sulphur, which, when once ignited, investCCon-
could not be extinguished by water. It adhered to wood, and stantinopie.
consumed whole fleets ; when thrown upon the combatants, it
insinuated itself between the joints of their armour, and they 66T-
died a death of torture. It was projected by pistons, " took fire ^ Greek f
in the air, and approached its victims in the form of fiery fire,
dragons." In one winter the caliph lost a fleet and army; and
not only retired, but concluded a peace, by agreeing to pay the
emperor a tribute for thirty years. Thus providence barred the
way of the Musselmans to the conquest of Europe, both in the
west and the east.
16. Damascus was now the seat of the caliphate. The family „T ■
. . r, , J, Mahometan
of Ommiyah, although during ninety years they produced factions
fourteen successive caliphs, yet had never been favorites with
the Arabian people. Their early persecution of the prophet,
and the tardiness with which they embraced the faith, made
them suspected by the devout. The descendants of AH and
Fatima had abandoned their pretensions to the sovereignty, and
by strict devotion to the observances of religion, had acquired
great reputation for sanctity among their countrymen. The
descendants of Abbas, the uncle of the prophet, were more
aspiring in their views, and had secretly enlisted great numbers
in their cause. The adherents of each of these factions was
designated by the adoption of a peculiar color in their dress.
The green was appropriated to the Fatimites ; the white, to the
Ommiyades ; and the black to the Abassides.
17. The contest of the white and black faction could only be ?^?'
terminated by a civil war. Abbas al Saffah, the chosen caliph
of the Abassides, and Merwan, the last of the Ommiyades,
led their armies to battle. Merwan was defeated, and the t0'
Abassides triumphed in the east. Abdalrahman alone, of the 751'.
royal family of Ommiyah, escaped. Spain received the fugitive, J^a§Sgta
and established him on the throne of Cordova, where, for more Spain from
than two hundred years, his descendants reigned. The dynasty th%^s'
of the Abassides urns established in the east, and they made
Bagdad their seat ; but the unity of the empire was destroyed.
Under these princes, of whom Haroun al Raschid, and' his
son al Mamon, stand pre-eminent, learning was patronized, and uaroun'ai
the literature of Greece and Rome carried to the east. Raschid.
15. Relate the attacks of the Saracens on Constantinople? What re-
markable agent saved the city? By whom was it invented, and what its
effect ? — 16. What was the seat of Caliphate at this period? What three
factions existed among the Moslems, and how was each distinguished ? — •
It. Between which was a civil war? Who escaped of the Ommiyades?
Where did he reign ? Where did the Abassides fix the seat of government?
Which was the most illustrious of these, and what did he encourage?
Refer to the map, and look over the chapter, and point out all the country
which the Mahometans had now conquered.
CHAPTER II.
The Eastern Empire.— The Church. — The Empire of Charlemagne.
Middle mn. l. EASTERN EMPIRE.— Heraclius lived to see the Syrian
perpd in. province severed from his dominion, and Jerusalem in the hands
chap. ii. of the Moslems. The successors of Heraclius, for a consider-
V <'v~>w able period, present no name worthy of record; and the annals
(The Mos- 0f the empire are marked with revolting accounts of intrigues,
'jeruBaiem assassinations, and petty revolutions of the palace. The cruel
cit.B"hbrt anc* snameml vices °f Justinian II. produced general disaffee-
in sanctity tion. Being deposed and expelled from the empire, he retired
to Mecca). to £ujgariai) a new kingdom on the north-western shore of the
685. fiuxine. The Bulgarians furnished him an army, with which
Justinian II. ' . & ... J 7 , ,
he recovered his throne. His cruelties again produced an in-
surrection, during which he was assassinated. With him
perished the last of the race of Heraclius.
isauriandy- 2. The Jsaurian dynasty commenced with Leo III., who rose
nasty begins from an obscure origin. In his reign was the commencement
with Leo III. „-.', & ,. - ■ ,, . r ,. P ■-. xir>
of the controversy respecting the worship of images ; the Ko-
man church contending for the practice, and the Greek church
mashipWOr~ against it. This dispute separated the eastern and western
churches, and contributed to disengage Italy from all dependence
741 upon the Greek or Byzantine empire. Image worship was,
separation however, restored by the infamous Irene, who was the empress
° errand of Leo IV., and mother of Constantine VI. The death of
churche" ^eo, wn^e Constantine was but ten years of age, placed the
imperial government in her hands. When Constantine arrived
T81. at maturity, she still wished to retain the power; and hence
Thir3'6SS bitter enmity arose between the mother and the son. Ambition
stifled every sentiment of nature and humanity, and the horrid
Her inhu- woman deprived her son of his sight and his life ! After Irene
traction "of ^ac^ re^nec^ ^ve years? Nicephorus, her treasurer, seized the
her son. throne, and doomed her to exile in the Island of Lesbos, where
she earned a scanty subsistence by spinning.
3. CHURCH HISTORY.— The bishops, or overseers of the
(First Christian churches, at first demeaned themselves in the meek
Sewmd'aiid sP*rit of tlie founder of their religion. But at length they
third cen- sought temporal power, and worldly advantage. The bishops*
* There were four general councils of bishops arid doctors, called (Ecu-
menical Councils. The first was convoked (325) by Constantine, and
was held at Nice, in Asia Minor. The Nicene Creed was here adopted.
The patriarchs of Alexandria and Constantinople presided alternately.
The second was convoked (381) by Theodosius, and held at Constantino-
Chat. II. — 1. What was the condition of the Greek empire? Give
some account of Justinian II. Of a new nation which had arisen. — 2.
What dispute occurred in the reign of Leo the Isaurian ? What kind of a
person was it who restored image worship in Constantinople ? Of what
horrid act was she guilty ? — 3. What may be said of the bishops of th«
Christian churches in the first century ? Where were the four general
councils held ?
198
ORIGIN OF MONACHISM. 199
of the great cities assumed authority over those of the surround- Middle Hist
ing country ; and Rome, Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, perpd hi.
and Jerusalem hecame the seats of ecclesiastical power; and chap. n.
their bishops might be said to constitute an oligarchy in the ^^^^^/
church. By degrees, those of Rome and Constantinople be- F<m^ oen"
came predominant, and each regarded the other with jealous Ei„hth
rivalry. This unholy spirit broke into action on the question of century,
image-worship ; and, as we have seen, severed into two branches
the visible church. Pepin's gift, confirmed by Charlemagne,
made a temporal dominion for the bishop of Rome, now called
pope. The ambition of these potentates grew as it was grati- From ^
fied, till they aspired to universal dominion. Theodoras I. 4th to the
(642) assumed the title of sovereign pontiff. Gaining one 15J|}rcyetn"
concession after another fiom Christian princes, the pope of
Rome became, through the dark ages, a king of kings ; nay
more — he assumed to be in the place of God.
4, Monachism, or Monkery, was another feature of the dark «J50-
ages.- Paul or Thebes, in Egypt, fled from the persecution Paul of
of Decius to a cavern, where dates were his food, and palm TthroduSces"
leaves his clothing. St. Anthony, another Egyptian, abode in monkery.
a hut in the desert, and made his filth his boast. At a little A^®®'
distance were the cabins of other ascetics, whom also the fame of Egypt.
of Anthony's sanctity had attracted to be his followers. Soon
the practice of retiring to poverty and religious seclusion be- origin of
came general ; and monasteries, or houses to contain devotees, monasteries
both male and female, were erected, and were governed by a
superior, called abbot or abbess. The first monastery of the
west was founded by St. Benedict, at Casino, near Naples.
Convents were soon afterwards erected in France. St. Patrick,
who introduced Christianity into Ireland, issued from one of these.
5. The idea prevailed, that to torture the body, was to do
good to the soul, and was meritorious with God ; this was
the principle of Acetic/ism, and was carried to an astonishing ^92.
length. Simon Stylites lived thirty years on the top of a andbeiis
lofty column. Convents soon existed in all Christian countries j, first used-)
and a host of monks and nuns took vows of celibacy and reli-
gious seclusion. But these changes had their causes in the ^ refuge8
condition of the times. The feudal system had made the great of women
barons so many petty sovereigns ; and except when the king ha^fuYmar
was a man of commanding mind, they were wholly unrestrained, riages.
pie. The third was convoked (431) by Theodosius the Younger, and was
held at Ephesus. St. Cyril, the patriarch of Alexandria, presided. The
fourth was convoked (451) by Marcian, and held at Chalccdon, when it
was decided that the church at Constantinople should have the same privi-
leges as that of Rome. The opinions of Arius were the occasion of these
councils, and although respectable minorities were in favor of them, they
were condemned by the majority.
3. What in the second and third ? What bishops constituted an oligar-
chy ? What, two became predominant ? Who first took the title of sove-
reign pontiff, and at what time? What did the pope become? — *. Give
some account of the use of monastic institutions. — 5. What was the grand
principle of aceticism ? What was done by Simon, surnamed Stylites f
200
THE FEUDAL SYSTEM.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. II.
Feudal
system
gives
great power
to the ba-
rons and
enslaves the
people.
4§6.
(Feudal sys-
tem intro-
duced by
Clovis.
568.
By Alboin.
600.
Hengist in-
troduces it
in England.)
68T
TESTE Y.
Pepin vic-
tor i us.
?14.
Charles
Martel,from
whom the
Carlovin-
gian dy-
nasty takes
its name.
The fierce passions of these irresponsible lords were ever ready
to break out into actions of murder and rapine. Females were
allowed no choice in marriage, but were disposed of by fathers
or brothers ; or, if heiresses, by their liege lords. When the
ecclesiastical power was the only appeal of the oppressed, and
the convent the only refuge of the victim, — it is no wonder that
many good men sought to exalt the power of the clergy, and
to found monasteries.
6. The Feudal System is a term used to express the man-
ner in which the chiefs, who conquered by the aid of their
armies, and settled in the conquered countries, divided the lands
among their followers ; and the liabilities and privileges growing
out of this division. When the chief, or king, saw the whole un-
divided territory on the one hand, and the hody of his follow-
ers wishing to settle it on the other, the question naturally
arose, how should he divide it ? The unsettled state of the
world was to be considered. If he divided it among his people,
without preserving a warlike attitude, they would become the
prey of some of the armed hordes, still moving in search of
settlements. The leader, therefore, after retaining what he chose,
gave out the lands in large portions to his principal captains, — on
condition of their doing homage to him, paying a certain sum
of money, and appearing in the held with a certain number of
retainers, whenever he called for their aid. These chief officers,
after keeping what they desired for their own use, divided the
remainder of the land assigned them, to their own favorites ; who
were to furnish money and soldiers to them, as they were to
the king. The conquered inhabitants who remained became
slaves, and were transferable with the lands. These kings rose
by their own prowess ; but on settling with their nation, the mo-
narchy was generally first elective in their families, then hereditary.
7. In FRANCE, the Merovingian dynasty, the degenerate de-
scendants of Clovis, still remained upon the throne. In the disor
ders consequent upon the weakness or minority of these monarchs,
the regency, or administration of government, was committed to
the mayor of the palace, who combined the offices of judge and
of steward of the household. These mayors acquired such an
extent of power, that the authority of the monarch was little
more than nominal. One of these officers, Pepin d' Heristal,
headed the nobles in a contest against the king and the people ;
and, after six years of war and confusion, was victorious in the
battle of Testry. By this he established his authority, and
made it hereditary. He was succeeded by his son Charles
M artel. It was during his administration that the Saracens
5. Why in those times might good men wish to set up the ecclesiastical au-
thority and form monasteries ? — 6. What is meant by the feudal system ?
What considerations would induce the chiefs in those times to preserve a
warlike attitude ? How were the conquered lands divided ? What became
of the conquered inhabitants ? Was the kingly office then hereditary ? — T.
What officers in France had set their authority above that of the monarchs?
Which of them made the office hereditary ? What account can you give of
his son ?
THE GREATEST SOVEREIGN OF THE MIDDLE AGES. 201
conquered France, from the Garonne to the Rhone. Charles Middle Hist.
collected his warriors, and fought with them the great battle of perfd hi.
Tours, which lasted seven days. He defeated the invaders with chap. if.
a very great loss, and recovered the provinces. This battle in ^-^v^>*-^
its results is probably the most important ever fought, — infliwn- 132.
cing not only the destiny of France, but of all Europe, — .and put- H^JJued
ting a check to the final progress of the Mahometan religion. Martei, the
Charles did not assume the name of king, but exercised the full iiTmSa
power. f°™e in
8. He was succeeded in the mayoralty by his son Pepin,
who, performing the functions, aspired to the title of sovereign.
The aid of Zachary, bishop of Rome, now known by the ap- fierJ[^5j,e
pellation of pope, was sought by Pepin, who inquired of him, took the title
" Whether a prince incapable of governing, or a minister in- grace of
vested with royal authority, and who supported it with dignity, Go^"le"d
ought to have the title of king ?" The pope decided in his fa- bishops into
vor. The people were absolved from their allegiance, their "sembiies!"
consciences quieted, — and Childeric 111., the last of the Merovin-
gian race, was deprived of his crown, and shut up in a monas-
tery. Pepin was crowned king of France, at Soissons, by St.
Boniface, bishop of Mentz. He was not unmindful of his obli- The exarch-
ffations to the pope. In his wars with Astolphus, kino; of the ate of Raven-
t i i i i r i -i i /• T> na lost t0 the
Lombards, he conquered from them the exarchate ot Kavenna, Greek empe-
which they had wrested from the Greek empire. This he gave -fcJJtJii
to the pope, who thereby became a temporal sovereign. The pope.
kings of France were recognized as patricians of Rome.
9. Pepin was succeeded by his sons Charles and Carlo-
man. The sovereignty of France could hardly be considered Ch„les ^nd
as hereditary at this period, as the consent of the nobles was Carioman.
required to the accession of these princes. The death of Car- Y£yd "l"'
loman left the whole kingdom to Charles. This prince gave £a^?Jte.r8 °,f
early indications of those qualities which gained him the name Carioman
of Charles the Great, or Charlemagne. He found a pretext ^jes.
for invading the kingdom of Lombardy, in the hostilities of
Desiderius against the pope. Charlemagne crossed the great TT4.
St. Bernard from Geneva, and successively took Pavla and Ve- Ghnaerlr:on_
rona. Lombardy was soon reduced to submission, and the king quers the
made captive. Charlemagne next visited Rome, where he was ^e Lom-f
received, by pope Adrian I., with every demonstration of joy, bards, and
and hailed as the deliverer of the church. He caused himself Kaudng-
to be crowned king of Lombardy. ^°m lasted
10. The Saxons now extended from Bohemia to the German 220 years.
ocean, and from the Rhine to the Baltic. They had often been
7. What is said of the battle of Tours ? From whom are the succeeding
kings called the Carlovingian dynasty ? — 8. What question was submitted
by Pepin to the arbitration of the pope? What was the decision? Who
was the last of the Merovingian kings, and what became of him ? What did
Pepin give to the pope which made him a temporal sovereign ? How did
Pepin obtain his title to the exarchate of Ravenna? — 9. Who succeeded
Pepin? Give an account of Charles. Who was Desiderius? Relate
Charlemagne's invasion of his kingdom, and the result. Where did he next
go ? Of what kingdom was he crowned king?
26
202 THE EMPIRE OF CHARLEMAGNE.
Middle Inst. forced to pay tribute to the monarchs of France, and as often
peri'D in. revolted. Charlemagne made war upon them; but it was not
chap. ii. till after thirty years of arduous contest, that he reduced them
to submission. Witikind, the most valiant and renowned of
their chiefs, at length embraced Christianity, and resigned his
arms. Charlemagne then obliged the Saxon people, under pe-
nalty of death, to receive baptism. He invaded and conquered
the Huns and Sclavonians. He then turned and attacked the
Saracens of Spain, and annexed to his dominions the territory
between the Pyrenees and the Ebro. On his return, as the rear
SpaEht0 the °^ kis army7 loaded with booty, passed Roncesvalles,his nephew,
Roland, and many of the knights, were attacked by the Gas-
cons, and though brave, they perished in the valley.
11. Until the emperor, Leo the I saurian, had outraged the
feelings of the Catholics by the proscription of image-worship, the
Division of authority of the Byzantine court had been acknowledged in
and witem Rome. Gregory II., now pope, remonstrated ; but finding his
churches, efforts for the removal of the edict ineffectual, he excited the
people to vindicate what they considered the cause of religion.
Rome and Ravenna revolted, and all Italy flew to arms. The
statues of the emperors were broken, and at Ravenna, the
Its cause- exarch, and many of the Inoclasts, or image-breakers, were
massacred ; and thus the eastern and western churches be-
came ultimately divided.
754. !£• Lltitprand, the ambitious king of the Lombards, availed
Pepin pre- himself of these disorders, took Ravenna, and subdued all the
Lombard cities of the exarchate. The Greek emperors recovered Ra-
conqueststo venna, and continued their persecution of image-worship; and
which be- the popes not less zealously continued to favor it. Astolphus,
Po^t&om °^ Lombardy, again subdued Ravenna, and threatened Rome.
The pope, Stephen III., went in person to the court of Pepin,
(ASeeisthe who, as has been related, conquered the exarchate, and gave it
ove7w°hich to tne See of Rome. Charlemagne, after conquering the Lom-
a bishop has bards, affected to confirm the gift of his father to the Holy See,
6CCi@S13.Stl- .
cai juxisdic- adding to it all the cities and islands which had been annexed
U°see oThe t0 tfte exarcnate- Yet, during the life of Charlemagne, these
Rome is dominions were dependent upon his power ; and both Ravenna
lHeseee") anQl Rome were numbered in his list of the metropolitan cities
"Holy 1
of his Great Empire of the West.
10. Where dwelt the Saxons at this period ? What had been their con-
duct towards the kings of France ? How long did it take Charlemagne to
subdue them ? What, can you relate of Witikind and of the Saxon people ?
What nations east of the Saxons did Charlemagne conquer ? What south
of France ? What happened at Roncesvalles ? Look through paragraphs
9 and 10, and show upon the map the countries which Charlemagne had
now Conquered? — 11. Relate the occasion on which the eastern and west-
ern churches divided ? — 12. Who was king of the Lombards, and what was
his conduct? Did the Greek emperors afterwards recover the exarchate ?
How was it concerning image-worship ? What was done by pope Stephen
III., and on what occasion? What was now given by Pepin? What
course was taken by his son ?
Charlemagne receives from the Caliph the keys of the Holy Sepulchre.
PERIOD IV.
FROM
THE CORONATION £ 800. 1 OF CHARLEMAGNE,
TO
THE COMMENCEMENT^ HOO.j OF THE CRUSADES.
CHAPTER J.
Empire of Charlemagne.
1. At the coronation of Charlemagne, Pope Leo III., after
placing the crown upon his head, saluted him with the title of
emperor of the Romans. He had quelled the barbarous nations
of Europe, with the exception of the Danes, or Normans-, and
his kingdom comprised France, Germany, Italy, and the north
of Spain. From the east Irene, the empress of Constantinople,
sought his friendship; and even the caliph of Bagdad, the
princely Haroun al Raschid, entered into a correspondence
with him, and sent him the keys of the holy sepulchre of
Jerusalem. Charlemagne, though a barbarian who at first could
not write his name, but " signed his treaties with the hilt of his
sword, and enforced them with its point," had yet great sym-
pathy with learned men. After he was a conqueror, he took
as a master in certain sciences, Alcuin, an English ecclesiastic,
and he founded the university of Paris, the first in Europe.
Period I V.— Chap. I.— -1. When did Charlemagne receive the imperial
crown, and from whom ? What nations had he conquered ? What was the
extent of his empire ? What sovereigns of the east honored him ? What
present did he receive from a caliph ? What can be said of Charlemagne
in regard to science and literature ?
203
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. I,
§00.
Charle-
magne
crown-
ed at
Rome.
The Ca-
liph
him
the keys
of the
sepul-
chre.
naire,
son of
Charle-
204 RUINOUS FAMILY DISSENSIONS.
Middle Hist. Charlemagne had daughters whom he was careful to have in-
peri'd iv. structed in the duties of their sex ; and he had two brave and
chap. i. warlike sons, by whose death his last years were darkened ; —
v-^>/^>w/ and the invasion of the Norman pirates, whom he foresaw would
' 814. distress his people, it is said, melted him to tears,
magne" ^* Louis, surnamed, from his meekness, " le Debonnaire,"
dies, was ill qualified to govern the great empire to which, on the
Louis le death of his father, he succeeded. He early associated his three
1_ sons with himself in the empire. Bernard, son of Pepin, Char-
lemagne's eldest son, had been previously placed on the throne
magne* of Italy. He now revolted, claiming that as the son of an elder
second brotner5 h's right to the empire was superior to that of his
mar- uncle. Bernard was made prisoner by Louis, and being con-
nage.) demned ^0 the loss of his eyes, he survived only three days.
Louis, seized with remorse for his cruelty to his nephew, im-
divides peached himself, and requested the clergy to condemn him to
his em- penance ; and they gladly seized this opportunity of humbling
pire' the civil power at the feet of the ecclesiastical.
mis ^" Meanwhile, the birth of a son, Charles the Bald, by a
second second marriage, made Louis desirous of another division of
Judith his dominions, which should give this son an inheritance with
ofBava- his brothers. Lothaire, his eldest, who was associated with
"igates him in the government of the empire, at first consented to a
him to new division. He soon, however, repented, and joined his
king- younger brothers, Pepin and Louis, to whom had been assign -
he™ son e<^ tne kingdoms of Aquitaine and Bavaria. The three openly
Charles rebelled against their father. Pope Gregory IV. joined the
Bald.) party of Lothaire, who was proclaimed emperor. The father
was imprisoned in the monastery of Soissons. The nobility,
however, soon returned to their allegiance, took Louis from the
convent, and restored him to the throne. Lothaire was forgiven
by his father, and permitted to retain the kingdom of Italy. On
the death of Louis, his sons turned their arms against each
other. Pepin, to whom had been assigned Aquitane, was dead,
and his possessions had been given by his father to Charles the
Bald. Lothaire, however, grasped at the whole empire. His
brothers united against him ; and the blood of thousands flowed
to gratify the ambition and hatred of men, who should have
shown to each other only kindness and affection.
841. 4. The civil war was succeeded by a negotiation, in which a
Down- new division of the empire was made. Lothaire, with the im-
the em- perial title, was left in possession of Italy, and the north-eastern
Char?/- Part °^ France, known by the name of Jlustrasia. To Charles
magne. the Bald were assigned Neustria and Aquitaine, while Louis
1 . How did he have his daughters instructed ? What sources of grief
had he in his last years? — 5$. Give an account of Charlemagne's succes-
sor.— 3. For what purpose did he make a second division of his dominions ?
What did his three elder sons? With whom did the pope take part, and
what followed ? By whom was Louis restored ? How did Louis treat Lo-
thaire ? What occurred on the death of Louis ? — 4. How did Lothaire.
Louis, and Charles the Bald divide the empire among themselves ?
end of Charlemagne's empire. 205
retained possession of Germany. Thus fell the empire of Char- Middle Hist,
lemagne. Divided among his grandsons, and sub-divided among perpd iv.
their successors, its several portions became the scene of anarchy, chap, i,
o. The Normans, or Danes, took advantage of these dis- v-*"~s^w
turbances, and spread devastation in the dominions of Charles
the Bald, even to the neighborhood of Paris. Lothaire, the thaire
emperor, in his declining days, divided his dominions between {^J1^3.
his sons, and sought, by retirement and penance, to expiate the pire.
sins of his former life. His eldest son succeeded to the impe-
rial honours under the title of Louis IT.
6 Louis of Germany governed his dominions with consi-
derable ability. On his death, they were divided between his
three sons. Carloman governed Bavaria; Louis, Saxony; and sion of
Charles, Suabia. Louis II., emperor and king of Italy, dying GenTa"
without sons, the Pope espoused the interest of his uncle,
Charles the Bald, who now received at his hands the impe-
rial crown. In virtue of his authority as emperor, Charles was
compelled to cross the Alps for the protection of Italy, which
was invaded by the Saracens, and during this expedition he
died.
7. The successors of Charles are little worthy of a place in 8^9.
history. His son, Louis the Stammerer, reigned but a few jJ°Md
months, and was succeeded by his two sons, Louis and Car- Cario-
loman. The death of these princes, while their brother, man>
Charles the Simple, was yet a minor, transferred the crown
of France to Charles the Fat, son of Louis the German SSJ" B
king, who had inherited the possessions of his brothers, and tneFat.
had already obtained the imperial crown. Thus, under this
monarch, was nearly reunited the empire of Charlemagne. His
incapacity for governing it was, however, soon apparent. The ^0Y_
Normans again apppeared, and besieged Paris for two years, ma^s
during which the wonderful exploits of Eudes, Count of Paris, S.e
and of his brother Robert, saved the city. The inefficiency
of Charles, who engaged to pay money to the Normans, on §§§.
condition of their departure, displeased his subjects, and he Count
was deposed. Charles the Simple, yet a minor, was de- an£*
clared king, and the valiant Eudes held the sovereign authority clJnrles
in trust. The Germans made Arnold, an illegitimate descend- simple.
ant of Charlemagne, their king.
8. Eudes died 898. With all his valor and ability, he had ®*f *
found himself unable to heal the disorders of the realm, which feudal
the weakness of Charles the Simple increased. The barons ^/p™
obtained from him a decree, making their estates and titles he- tuated.
4. Did the empire of Charlemagne longer exist? — 5. What barbarians
invaded France ? What portion of France ? Who was the successor of
Lothaire? — 6. Give some account of the affairs of Germany. What is
further said of Charles the Bald ? — T. Give some account of his successors.
Under whom was the empire nearly reunited? Who saved Paris from
the incursions of the Normans ? Who was the real sovereign of France
while Charles the Simple was the nominal one? What account can you
give of Arnold? — S. What concessions did the barons gain from Charles
the Simple »
206 HOLLO, OR DUKE ROBERT.
Middle Hist, rediiary in their families, and this is considered the beginning
peri'd iv. of modern nobility. They were also permitted to fortify their
chap. i. castles, which Charlemagne had prohibited, but which the
^*~\'-~*w attacks of the Normans rendered necessary. In process of time,
however, this, with other measures, left the nobles a mere no-
minal dependence on the crown ; and they exercised within
their respective domains, the rights of sovereign princes, and
France was filled with the miseries arising from their continual
depredations upon each other.
9. The Normans, or Danes, made a new incursion, and
905. spread devastation far and wide, plundering even the churches,
same anc* carrying terror and dismay into the remotest parts of the
people, country. The martial spirit seemed wholly to have deserted
Vder the the sons of the Franks ; and with the most astonishing cow-
nDaneaf arc^ce5 tney suffered themselves to be plundered, and even
invaded butchered by the barbarians. Under the command of their ce-
Slfd", leDratecl cnief Rollo, they sailed up the Seine, and made them-
under selves masters of Rouen, which they fortified. Charles, unable
conquer to rePel tne invaders, ceded to them the province of Nuestria,
western ^iereafter ca^ed Normandy, and gave to Rollo his daughter in
pro. marriage. The Norman chief was, however, to do homage to
France!" Charles, kneeling and kissing the royal toe. Though willing
to acknowledge the supremacy of the king of France, the
haughty Rollo was displeased with the manner. At length it
was arranged that one of his officers should perform the cere-
mony in his name. His substitute, as unwilling to stoop as his
master, under pretence of carrying his majesty's foot to his
mouth, overturned him in the presence of his court; and Charles,
unable to revenge the insult, submitted to it in silence.
912. ^' ^ie Normans became converts to Christianity, and Rollo
Nor- was baptized, receiving the name of Robert. He adopted the
m^s feudal system, dividing Normandy into large shares among his
brace chief captains, on condition of their doing homage to him, and
SS&ty. bringing to the field a stipulated number of followers. These
chief officers divided the remainder of the land thus assigned
them, each among his own favorites, who were to furnish sol-
adopts diers to these chiefs, as they themselves were to the sovereign,
jgj £eu- who, in Normandy, received the title of duke. This was an
temfthe improvement upon the course of things among barbarians ; as it
features was better that men should settle down and cultivate the soil,
of feeling that they possessed it, than that they should be wander-
arehhere ing robbers ; and in order that other freebooters should not
repeat- destroy them, as they had the unresisting inhabitants who pre-
ceded them, it was necessary to keep up a military organisa-
tion. But in the process of time, the feudal system became
exceedingly oppressive to the serfs, or villains, as the lowest
class were denominated ; and the former inhabitants of the
8. What is this considered to be the beginning of? What was the con-
dition of the kingdom ? — 9. Give an account of the invasion of the Nor-
mans or Danes. On what terms did they cease hostilities? — lO. Repeat,
the main features of the feudal system adopted by Rollo ?
BEGINNING OF THE GERMAN CONFEDERATION. 207
conquered countries were always of this lowest class. Their md^e gg.
condition was essentially that of slaves, as they were liable to peri'D iv.
be sold with the land. They could not, however, be transferred chap. ii.
but with the soil ; and hence families were not liable to be for- ^^ '^v-^-'
cibly disunited.
11. A shadow of royalty alone remained to the degraded 9ST-
descendants of Charlemagne ; many of the nobles possessing ^pf?.
more resources and greater power than the monarch. Hugh The ca-
the Great, son of the duke of Brittany, put up kings, and put Psu?"S
them down at his pleasure. At length his son, Hugh Capet, thceeQ^
in 989, added to the power, the title of king of France, and was lovin-
the founder of the Capetian dynasty. gians"
12. Five nations, each governed by their own laws, and their rive
own dukes, the Franconians, the Saxons, the Swabians, the nlt™ns
Bavarians, and Lorrainers, composed at this time the German jonft-
Confederation. . Among their princes were able men, and they and
determined to choose, in a pressing emergency, (the terrible "Jjjjj^
Huns having invaded them,) one of their own number as their mo-
emperor. Assembled in diet at Worms, the electors of these n^^
nations conferred upon Conrad, the duke of Franconia, the tiye.
imperial dignity. The reign of Conrad was disquieted by the 912.
rebellion of some of the powerful nobles of the empire, and by Coijrad
the irruptions of the Huns, who spread themselves over Pan-
nonia, which from them received the name of Hungary. From
thence they extended their ravages to the Baltic, — passed the
Rhine, and desolated France and the northern part of Italy.
Germany was, however, the scene of their most destructive
inroads. Conrad became weary of the cares of state, and re-
commended a rival, who had sought to deprive him of power,
as his successor, because he believed his talents fitted him to be
*5
O
L o
o
r3
920.
an able sovereign. This was Henry the Fowler, duke of Henry
Saxony. He obtained a decided victory over the Hungarians, the
which, though it did not effectually subdue their power, yet ^_er
freed the Germans from their depredations. He was succeeded c^erdsd
by Otho the Great.
CHAPTER II.
Britain.*
1. The most interesting event which happened during the
Heptarchy was the introduction of Christianity. The period of
* Said to have been originally Bruit-tan — Tin-land.
lO. Did this tend to equality in the circumstances of men, or what was
its tendency ? — 1 1 . What was the condition of Charlemagne's descendants ?
What father and son supplanted the Carlovingian monarchs and founded a
new dynasty? What was it called? — 12. Explain the condition of the
Germans, and what they now did in reference to the sovereign.
Chap. II." — 1. When and by whom was Christianity introduced into
England ? Who was the first martyr ?
208
ALFRED.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. II.
f §2T
Saxon
hep-
tarchy
united
under
Egbert.
§65.
Ragnor
Ladbrog
a fa-
mous
sea-
king is
killed,
which
causes
the sea-
kings or
Danes
to infest
Eng-
land.
8W.
Alfred
the
Great.
Alfred
visits
foreign
coun-
tries.
Learns
to read
of his fa-
ther's
young
queen.
this, is generally" reckoned to be that of the visit of st. Augus-
tine, 596 ; although there had been Christians much earlier.
St. Alban, England's first martyr, suffered in the persecutions of
Diocletian. After much bloodshed, the seven kingdoms which
formed the Saxon heptarchy, were united under one monarch,
Egbert, king of Wessex. The council of the Wittagemot
was composed of about thirty persons, the most powerful in the
kingdom, whether lay-men or ecclesiastics; and probably rather
hereditary than elective. Their consent was necessary to all
laws. Their laws, however, show the barbarity of the times.
For murder, offenders were fined, and in proportion to the rank
of the person murdered. For a king, the sum was very large ;
for an earl or bishop about one-fifth as' much ; for a serf, less
than a hundredth. The tranquillity of Egbert's reign was dis-
turbed by the depredations and assaults of some of the most
fierce and fearless of barbarians 5 who under the names of sea-
kings, Normans, Northmen, and Danes, ranged in ships, —
pirates at sea, and robbers on land. He encountered them in
battle ; and though he obtained two successive victories over
them, still their ships brought new swarms.
2. Under his successor, Ethelwolf, the nation suffered still
more severely from their ravages. Ragnor Ladbrog, a noted
sea-king, had been killed in England by Ella, one of the Saxon
princes ; and to avenge his death, no less than to glut their ap-
petite for plunder, murder, and rapine, these terrific natives of
the peninsula of Jutland, commanded by the sons of Ladbrog,
again united their forces to ravage England. They landed in
great bodies, plundered and desolated the country, made pri-
soners of the inhabitants, and when attacked by the English, re-
treated with their booty to their ships. A succession of three
weak and inefficient princes, Ethelbald son of Ethelwolf, and
Ethelbert and Ethelred his sons, was followed by the
reign of Alfred, the younger son of Ethelwolf.
3. In his early youth, Alfred had accompanied his father in
a pilgrimage to Rome, and on his return visited Paris ; thus
gaining some insight into the characters and situations of other
and more civilized nations. At the age of twelve he was igno-
rant of the art of reading, an acquisition at that time rare ; but
he delighted in hearing Anglo-Saxon songs. One day he dis-
covered in the hands of queen Judith, a French princess
whom his father had married, a written volume of his favorite
poems. She promised him that as soon as he could read the
volume, he should possess it. He eagerly applied himself to
the task, and soon obtained the valued trophy of his victory.
At the age of twenty-two he ascended the throne. The Danes
were now more formidable than ever. Alfred gained some ad-
1. Who was Egbert ? What did he do in reference to the Saxon Hep-
tarchy ? Of what was the council composed ? Give an account of the ter-
rible invaders of England. — 2. Under what kings did they continue their
incursions? — 3. Give some account of Alfred's early years. Of the first
years of his reign.
a min-
strel.
BATTLE OF ETHANDUNE. 209
vantages over them, and they stipulated to retire ; but receiving Middle Hist.
reinforcements, they violated their treaty. The young prince perpd iv
•fought eight battles with them in one year; but they swarmed chap. ii.
upon the coast in greater numbers than before. v^-v-x^
4. The Saxons believed themselves abandoned by heaven, s^.
and Alfred sought in vain to rally them. He then took the Alfred
habit of a peasant, determining to reserve himself for more fa- th^dis-
vorable times. To make his disguise the more complete, he suise °_f
laid aside his princely bearing, as well as his regal robes, and sant,in
with the dress and language of a rustic, he offered his services n^g~_
to a herdsman, and faithfully tended his cows as they grazed, merset-
Once, when his mistress had desired him to watch and turn the s lre"
cakes at the fire, his mind wandered to other things, and the *f?veal!
good wife scolded hirn for permitting the cakes to burn. Yet, to some
knowing his fault, he submitted patiently. He was beloved by ^JJo1^.
the honest pair, whom he afterwards gratefully rewarded. At sit him
length Oddune, earl of Devon, whose castle the Danes had af£jXeI"
besieged, made a sally, and took from them what they supersti-
tiously believed to be an enchanted banner. Alfred now seeing viSits
cause to hope for better days, made himself known to some of *h?
his nobles who had in readiness their forces. He then took a camp as
bold resolution. Disguised as a wandering minstrel, and bear-
ing a harp, he entered the camp of the Danes; and while his
music entertained them, they unsuspiciously suffered him to ob- g^g.
serve their careless security. He also learned that they were eth-
about to celebrate a festival. Quitting the hostile camp, he re- DJ^E
vealed himself publicly to his rejoicing subjects, who had Alfred
thought him dead. They collected from all quarters, attacked detfhets
the astonished Danes on the day of their celebration, and Danes,
gained an easy, but complete victory.
5. Alfred granted the Danes permission to settle in Northum-
berland and East Anglia, on condition of their being governed
by his laws, and embracing Christianity. They were accord- Alfred
ingly baptized; and the king himself stood godfather for Guth- truly
rum their chief. The civil and military institutions of Alfred §j?au
have acquired for him the admiration of posterity. The love . the
of letters manifested in youth, continued through life; and, Eng-°
though burdened with the cares of government, and harassed l.and tne,
u6st rind
with vexatious wars, he yet found time, at the age of thirty- most
eight, to study the Latin language, and to write several works
of reputation. He founded the university of Oxford, and he
formed a system of jurisprudence, which is supposed to be the
foundation of English common law. He established a navy, Alfred
which is considered as the commencement of the greatest naval j*ieJg
power the world has ever witnessed. In short, it was Alfred
4:. Give an account of Alfred's subsequent changes of fortune till the bat-
tle of Ethandune.— 5. Where did he permit the Danes to settle, and on
what condition ? What did Alfred accomplish to merit the admiration of
posterity ? Do you find any vice to counterbalance his accomplishments
and virtues ? You have now read the history of many sovereigns, have you
found this a common case ?
27
less.
900.
210
THE AGE OF SUPERSTITION.
Middle Hist.
r 9©i.
Ed-
ward I.
925.
At.hel-
stan.
940.
Ed-
mund I.
94§.
Edred.
985.
Edwy
and
Elgiva.
A tragic
story
of love
blighted
by su-
persti-
tion.
Dun-
stan the
great
author
of mon-
kery in
Eng-
land.
who laid the foundation of the British monarchy. Nor do we
iind one act of inhumanity or vice, one habit of indolence or
irregularity, to sully the fair fame of his public virtue. He had
fought fifty-six battles ; but his wars were those of defence, and
ever unstained by ambition or cruelty.
6. The three immediate successors of Alfred were able princes,
who held the government with a firm hand. These were Edward
the Elder, his son and successor, who built many fortresses
and subjugated the Danes ; Athelstan, natural son of Ed-
ward, who is much renowned in history for the victories he ob-
tained over these and other barbarians by whom the kingdom was
assailed ; — and Edmund the Elder, who conquered North-
umberland from the Britons and bestowed it on Malcolm, king
of Scotland, on condition that he should do homage to him, and
defend the northern frontier from the Danes. The reign of
Edred, his brother and successor, is memorable for the esta-
blishment of monasteries in England ; and for the influence
which Dunstaznt,* abbot of Glastonbury, possessed over this
superstitious monarch.
7. Edred left the throne to Edwy, a prince of seventeen, — ele-
gant in his person, and ardent in his affections. The beautiful
Elgiva, his second cousin, had captivated his youthful heart,
and he married her, contrary to the decree of the church, which
forbade marriage between persons of this degree of affinity.
Dimstan denounced and insulted him ; and he boldly banished
the monk from the realm. But the spirit of fanaticism, — the
prevailing spirit of the age, — was on the side of the church.
Odo, archbishop of Canterbury, tore Elgiva from her husband,
and caused her face to be scarred with a red hot iron, to destroy
the beauty which had ensnared the king. The hapless wife es-
caped from the cruel hands of her persecutors, and was returning
to her husband, when they retook the fugitive, murdered her,
and dethroned the wretched Edwy ; who, forsaken by his sub-
jects, and excommunicated by the. relentless clergy, soon rested
from his sorrows in death.
8. Edgar, a boy of thirteen, brother to Edwy, succeeded
him ; and Dunstan, who had now returned, took the govern-
ment in the name of the young prince. This monk set himself
against the marriages of the secular clergy, and obliged great
numbers of them to separate from their families. He was also
* This monk concealed great ambition under the cloak of sanctity. The
ignorance and credulity of those times cannot be better illustrated than by
the stories which he made the people believe. In his miserable cell, the
devil, affronted as he said, by his holy mortifications, annoyed him by fre-
quent conflicts. At length, he came one day in the shape of a woman. St.
Dunstan seized him by the nose with a pair of red-hot pincers. Satan roared
and bellowed, and after this never dared show his face to the valiant
monk.
6. What were the names and characters of the three immediate successors
of Alfred ? (Always in answering such questions, give the names in the
order of time.) For what is the reign of Edred memorable? Who was
Dunstan ? — 1. Relate the history of Edwy and Elgiva.
MASSACRE OF THE DANES. 211
active in endowing monasteries, and thus shutting up in idle- Middle mst.
ness many men whose services the kingdom needed. Edgar,
as he grew to manhood, saw the difficulty of his situation, and
in reality proved the master spirit of his kingdom ; but his cha-
racter presents us greatness without virtue. Flattering the 959.
monks, he preserved their favor ; and unrestrained by moral Edsar-
principle, he violated, in the pursuit of pleasure, all laws, human
and divine. He built and supported a powerful navy, which he KetJJgS"
divided into three squadrons, commanding each to make by Dun-
turns, the circuit of his dominions, thus keeping the seamen in Taxes
practice, and intimidating the Danes. Edgar married for his the
second wife, Elfrida, the daughter of a nobleman, more cele-
brated for her beauty than her virtues.*
9. Edward II., son of Edgar by his first marriage, was raised 972.
by Dunstan to the throne, in opposition to the wishes of Elfri- Edward
da, who desired her own son, Ethelred, to receive the crown. Martyr.
He obtained the surname of the martyr ; for the wicked Elfrida 9"?§.
soon caused him to be murdered; thus securing the crown for E^l~
Ethelred.
10. The Danes, with fresh hopes and recruited strength,
again entered England, and the weak monarch gave them
money to depart. This was both a lure and an acknowledg-
ment of weakness ; and, as if to add yet another induce- 1002-
ment to the myriads of the northern hive, the weak and cruel ^raessof~
son of Elfrida gave orders for a general massacre of all the .the
Danes in his dominions ; and the order was executed with the
Danes.
Sweyn | ^
most barbarous inhumanity. Among the number was Gtjnhil-
da, sister of Sweyn, the powerful king of Denmark — a Chris-
tian princess, married to a nobleman of England. The mother
was made to witness the dying agonies of her children, who
were put to death before her face ; after which she was herself
inhumanly slain. The fierce wrath of Sweyn was enkindled. "fL® „ | |=<
He collected a formidable armament, landed in the west of Eng- expel:
land, and carried fire and sword through the land. The timid B|J|1"
Ethelred fled to Robert, duke of Normandy, (whose sister
* The fame of her beauty had reached the monarch, and he sent Ethel-
wold, his favorite, to see if her charms deserved the praise bestowed upon
them. Ethelwold, enamored of her himself, falsely told his master that re-
port had exaggerated her beauty — but that she was a rich heiress, and would
be a desirable match for himself. Edgar promoted the union. Afterwards,
suspecting the treachery, he determined to visit the castle of Ethelwold.
The distressed husband confessed to his wife the fault his passion had led
him to commit, and besought her to conceal her beauty as much as possible.
But Elfrida was careful to attire herself in the most becoming manner. The
monarch was charmed, slew the husband with his own hand, and married
Elfrida. She who had thus connived at the destruction of her husband,
carried dissension and disaster into the royal family.
8. Give an account of the reign and character of Edgar. What was Dun-
stan engaged in bringing about ? — 9. What was the name and fate of Ed-
gar's successor ? — IO. What was done by Ethelred in relation to the Danes ?
Give an account of their massacre. Who avenged the death of Gunhilda ?
To whom did Ethelred flee ?
212
CANUTE.
Middle Hist.
1042
05 I Edward
the Con-
fessor,
last of
the
Saxon
kings,
de-
j scended
I from
L Cerdic.
Emma he had married for his second wife.* Sweyn died
bf3fore he had time to establish himself in his conquered do-
minions.
11. Ethelred returned to England, but found Canute, the
son and successor of Sweyn, a powerful adversary. The death
of Ethelred left his eldest son Edmund Ironside to carry on
the war. Edmund, though brave, was unable to resist the war-
like Danes, surrounded as he was by the treacherous machi-
nations of his own subjects. He was defeated in a battle, and
compelled to relinquish a part of his territories. Canute re-
ceived the northern part of the kingdom, while Edmund was
left in possession of the south. But this monarch, worthy of
a better fate, was assassinated by two of his rebellious subjects
in the interest of Canute, who then seized on the dominions of
Edmund, and became sovereign of the entire kingdom. To
strengthen his title he married Emma* the widow of Ethelred.
12. Canute sent back a part of his followers into Denmark,
and restored the Saxon laws and customs. After this he return-
ed to Denmark, and conquered Sweden and Norway ; when
he returned to reside in England. Canute became weary of the
flatterers, who pronounced him omnipotent. He ordered his
chair placed by the sea shore, and commanded the advancing
tide to stop ; but it moved onwards and wet his robe — when,
turning to his flatterers, he sternly rebuked them. On his death,
his sons Harold and Hardicanute successively obtained the
crown of England. On the death of the latter the English
threw off the Danish yoke, and recalled Edward, surnamed,
on account of his piety, "the Confessor." He was the son of
Ethelred and Emma, and had been under the protection of his
maternal uncle, the duke of Normandy. The reign of Edward
was disturbed by rebellions among his nobility, some of whom
openly aspired to the crown.
13. The death of Edward the Confessor, who was the last of
the Saxon kings, left the succession to the English throne open
* Emma was a descendant of Rollo ; her father, Richard the Good, of
Normandy, being Rollo's great grandson. She is remarkable as a con-
necting link in the English history. She married two of the kings of Eng-
land, Ethelred, to whom she was the second wife, and by whom she had
two sons, Alfred and Edward ; and after his death Canute, by whom she
had one son, Hardicanute. Edmund Ironside was her step-son, as was the
second Harold, so that she was connected as either wife or mother, to six
of the kings of England, Ethelred, Edmund, Canute, Harold, Hardica-
nute, and Edward the Confesssr. She was aunt to William the Conqueror,
and his only claim to the crown of England was through her. Thus she
forms the connecting link between the Saxon, the Danish, and the Nor-
man kings of England.
10. Give some account of Emma. (See note.) — 1 1 . Give an account of
Canute. — 12. What did Canute in respect to the Saxon customs? What
kingdoms did he conquer? As Canute was originally king of Denmark,
of now many, and what countries was he now the sovereign? What
method did he take to reprove his flatterers ? Who succeeded Canute in
the sovereignty of England ? What was done on the death of Hardica-
nute ? What was the parentage of Edward the Confessor ? Who was his
remote ancestor ? Of what dynasty is he the last king ?
WILLIAM THE CONQ.UEROR. 213
to contention. Edgar, surnamed Atheling, (the illustrious) a ^fffff HisL
son of Edmund Ironside, presented his claim, and also William, perpd iv.
duke of Normandy, natural son of duke Robert, the brother chap. ii.
of Emma. Before, however, the question of right was decided,
Harold, son of the powerful Earl Godwin, usurped the sove-
reignty, and obtained the allegiance of the nation. William, of
Normandy, was distinguished for courage, ambition, and mili- . t
tary skill. His court was thronged by youth of different coun- mothe^was
tries, eager for military enterprise. William dutifully applied da^rl15>tttg'of
to pope Alexander IJ. for permission to conquer England. The a tanner.)
pope gave him the country, and sent him his blessing, with a
ring containing one of St. Peter's hairs. William no longer hesi-
tated, but embarked his army, and landed at Pevensey. Harold
was in the north, where he had just defeated the forces of the
king of Norway, who had invaded his kingdom, when he J^^r
learned that the duke of Normandy had landed with a power- inqs.
ful army. Elated with his recent victory, he hastened to the ^Jj*™
south. Deaf to remonstrances, at Hastings he ventured his q»ers
kingdom, though with an inferior force, upon the success of a iand~
single battle, — lost it—and with it his crown and life.
14. William proceeded to London. Before he reached the wn-
city, he was met by a deputation who offered him the crown, '^n?6
accompanied by Edgar Atheling, with the two noblemen Edwin queror
and Morcar, who had proclaimed this descendent of the Saxon "hJf8
line. After six months he revisited Normandy. The rapacity of reisn
his army produced a revolt. William hastened his return, and sfveto
found that the insurrection was headed by the most powerful the peo-
nobles of the realm, aided by the kings of Scotland and Denmark.
He crushed the rebellion, and found pretences to enrich his
Norman followers, bestowing on them the estates of the rebels.
15. William introduced the feudal system into England, di-
viding the kingdom into large landed estates, or baronies, which 0?e
were distributed among the Norman chiefs, none of the English themto
being permitted to hold those of the first rank. The English PJJ^J*
nobility were therefore degraded, and the lower classes of the lights at
conquered became serfs. William caused a survey of all the ringing
lands in England to be made, and recorded in what is termed ofbthe
" the Doomsday Book." He obliged the people to extinguish oTeven-
their lights at the ringing of the curfew, or evening bell. ins bel1-)
16. On the death of William, his dominions were divided
among his sons. England was the portion of William Rufus. 10ST
His continental possessions were divided between his younger William
sons, Robert and Henry, Robert receiving the larger share.
13. Who presented claims to the throne at his death ? Who was ac-
knowledged king ? For what was William distinguished ? What species
of persons thronged his court ? When he invaded England, at what place
did he land ? Where was Harold ? Give an account of the battle of Hast-
ings and its results? — 14. Relate the circumstances of the early part of his
reign. — 15. In following out the feudal system, whom did William make
the chief barons ? Who became serfs? What measure did he take con-
cerning the landed property in England? — 16. Give an account of the suc-
cessors of William.
I
g
it
b
as
214
KENNETH M'ALPINE.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. II.
The high-
lands of
Scotland
never con-
quered by
the Romans.
Divided be-
tween the
Picts and
Scots.
84*2.
In Kenneth
is united the
empire of
the Picts
and Scots.
Duncan.
1039.
Macbeth.
1056.
Malcolm.
The good
queen Mar-
garet.
Wars between these brothers followed. At length Robert im-
bibed the enthusiastic spirit of the crusades; and resolving to
devote himself to the holy enterprise, mortgaged Normandy to
his brother William, for a sum of money sufficient to enable
him to embark.
17. SCOTLAND. — The ancient Caledonians were never
conquered by the Romans, though they employed the arms of
some of their most skilful commanders against them. In the
fifth century, when the island was abandoned, and the Britons
were left to their independence, we find in the northern parts,
two powerful and distinct tribes; the Picts and the Scots.
The Picts are supposed to be the descendants of the ancient
Britons, who, in the Roman conquests, chose to migrate north-
ward rather than to submit. They inhabited the eastern, while
the Scots, supposed to be of the same origin with the northern
Irish, occupied the western coast of the island .* These nations
were continually at war with each other, and with the inhabit-
ants of South Britain, who at last, unable to withstand their
depredations, called in, as we have seen, the aid of the Saxons.
These contests of the Picts and Scots were at length closed by
the elevation of a prince named Kenneth McAlpine, to the
throne of both kingdoms, he uniting the blood of the two royal
families of the Picts and the Scots. The country received the
name of Scotland.
18. Duncan succeeded to the crown in 1033, but fell by the
hand of Macbeth, who usurped his throne. The usurper was
soon slain in battle at Dunsinane, by Macduff, an injured noble.
Malcolm, the son of Duncan, had taken refuge in England,
where he was hospitably received by Edward the Confessor.
By the assistance of the Duke of Northumberland, whom Ed-
ward sent into Scotland, Malcolm recovered his kingdom.
During the remainder of Edward's reign, the two nations were
at peace. On the accession of Harold to the English throne,
Malcolm favored the insurrection against him. Many of the
Saxon nobles of England, stung by the indignities suffered from
their Norman conquerer, fled to his court. Among them, were
Edgar Atheling, and his sister Margaret, a virtuous, beautiful,
and accomplished princess. The monarch of the Scots made
her his queen, and she exerted a most happy influence, laboring
* The language of this people is called the Celtic, or more recently the
Gaelic. The learned are at variance respecting the Celts; some maintain-
ing them to be the same people as the Goths, others assigning them a dif-
ferent origin. Julius Caesar found in Gaul, a people whom he called Celts.
Some suppose that Caesar referred to the Belgic Gauls. All, we believe,
agree that the only remains of this people now discoverable, are found in
Ireland and the western part of Great Britain.
IT. Were the ancient Caledonians ever conquered by the Romans?
What two tribes gave demonstrations of their power in the fifth century ?
What is believed concerning the Picts ? What is said of the Scots ? (Ex-
amine the note.) Why is the reign of Kenneth McAlpine memorable ? —
18. Whom did Macbeth assassinate ? Where, and by whom was Mac-
beth slain ? Give an account of his successor. What persons fled to Mal-
colm's court ? Give an account of Margaret.
OTHO THE GREAT. 215
for the instruction of the barbarous Scots, and relieving the dis- Midd^ Hist.
tresses of her Saxon countrymen. During the reign of William perpd iv.
Rufus, Malcolm was frequently engaged in hostilities, and was chap- in.
finally slain in battle. His children being minors, his brother ^^"\^w
Donald Bane usurped the crown, and Scotland was for some 1093.
years embroiled in civil war ; but at length, Edgar, the third Saite?
son of Malcolm and Margaret, obtained the crown. 1098,
5 ' Edgar.
CHAPTER III.
Germany.
1. After the downfall of Charlemagne's empire, Germany, 936.
from the character of its sovereigns, took the lead in the poli- °th° *•
tics of Europe. Otho the Great succeeded his distinguished hifdis-
father, Henry the Fowler. The powerful nobles of his king- JJJjJJJ*
dom openly aspired to independence, but he obliged them, by extends
the force of his arms, and the superiority of his genius, to submit. p(^ser
He balanced their power by conferring upon the clergy the over
rights of temporal princes. Bohemia he rendered tributary to mia and
Germany, compelling the inhabitants to embrace Christianity. Hunga-
He encountered the warlike Hungarians near Augsburgh, and
was victorious. He invaded France and Denmark, and where-
ever he went, he made the will of others bend to his own.
2. Since the extinction of the empire of Charlemagne, Italy 9^
had been governed by native princes, engaged in frequent hos- e$fi\.
tilities with each other, and the realm was divided by powerful Kings of
factions. Of these princes, perhaps Berenger I., who, from Beren-
duke of Friuli, became king of Italy, is best known. The aid §er L
of Otho was now implored against Berenger II., who had ger n.
rendered himself odious by his tyranny. Otho marched into
Italy, subdued Berenger ; made himself master of his kingdom,
deposed the licentious pope, John XII., who favored Berenger,
and placed Leo VIII. in the papal chair. Otho determining
to set the civil above the ecclesiastical power, revived a oS^n*
claim that he and his successors should have the power of unites
naming the pope, and giving investiture to bishops. On the tbe'em-
return of Otho to Germany, his Italian subjects again revolted, P'^e-
and on the death of Leo, contested the right of the emperor to
nominate his successor. His arms, however, again compelled
18. Who are the successors of Malcolm ?
Chap. III. — 1. On what account did Germany take the lead in politics?
From what able monarch did Otho the great descend ? What actions
showed the force of Otho's character ? What nations did he successfully
contend with 1 — 2. What occurred in Italy after the fall of Charlemagne's
empire ? What pretext had Otho for invading Italy ? What did he effect
in Italy ? What claim did he set up ?
216
GERMANY.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. III.
9?3.
Otho II.
Three
popes at
the
9S3.
k
o
a.
Eo, Otho III.
O
1002
Henry
II.
1024
Conrad
II.
1039
Henry
III.
1056
Henry
IV.
War of
the in-
vesti-
tures.
submission, after which his reign was tranquil. He was the
most powerful monarch of his time.
3. Otho I. was succeeded by his son, Otho II., who during
the life of his father had been elected his successor. By a mar-
riage with Theophana, daughter of the eastern emperor, he ob-
tained a claim to the Grecian provinces of Italy. During his
reign, the most disorderly and turbulent proceedings were wit-
nessed at Rome, where at one time three several popes were
elected, each anathematising and excommunicating the others.
4. Otho III., although a minor at the time of his father's
death, had by his influence been elected to succeed him. The
Italians rebelled, and under Crescentius, a Roman, who took
the title of consul, an attempt was made to re-establish the re-
public. But the degenerate Romans had no longer the virtue to
remain free, even if a leader of talents had been at their head.
Otho, when he became of age, soon quieted the disturbances
made by the party of Crescentius, and restored pope Gregory
whom they had deposed. This emperor defeated the Danes,
and entered into an alliance with Eric, (who then swayed the
sceptre of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark,) obtaining permis-
sion for Christian missionaries to enter his kingdom. Otho ex-
pelled the Saracens from the south of Italy, where they had
made, for forty years, destructive ravages. He dying without
heirs, several claimants of the imperial crown appeared.
5. Henry II., grandson of Otho II., obtained the election.
His reign is marked by no important event. It is said, that dis-
gusted with the world, he desired to retire to a convent, and as-
sumed the monastic habit. The abbot received him as a bro-
ther, but remarked, u Monks owe obedience to their superiors,
1 order you to continue at the helm of government." Henry
obeyed his superior, and reassumecl his crown. At his death
an assembly of princes, after six weeks deliberation, elected as his
successor, Conrad If., surnamed the Salic, duke of Franconia.
During his reign, the kingdom of Burgundy was annexed to the
German empire.
6. He was succeeded by his son, Henry III., who found
himself engaged, at the commencement of his reign, in wars
with the Hungarians, the Bohemians, and the Poles who had
now become a nation; in all of which, success followed his
arms. Henry extended the prerogatives of the crown, and exer-
cised a more absolute power than any former German monarch.
His nobles murmured, and after his death their enmity descended
to his son and successor, Henry IV., and was manifested
in the course of the war with the popes, called the war of the
investitures. The former Roman emperors had exercised the
power of nominating bishops and abbots, and of giving them
3. Give an account of his successor. What was the state of the pope-
dom ? — 4. Who was Crescentius? Eric? What is here said of the Sara-
cens? What actions were performed by Otho III. ? — 5. What can you say
of Henry II. ? What kingdom was annexed to Germany by Conrad the
Salic ? — 6. What account can you give of Henry III. ?
HILDEBRAND.
217
investiture by the ring and crosier. Otho the Great, and his Middle Hlst
successors, had claimed this power. Pope Alexander II. had perpd iv
published a decree during the life of Henry III., forbidding this chap. hi.
investiture, and the doctrine was now maintained, that as the ^-*w~w
spiritual power was superior to the temporal, the bishops and
abbots received their authority from God, and not from the em-
peror ; but, on the contrary, that the emperor was to hold his
investiture of the pope, and his authority under him.
7. The famous Hildebrand, with the title of Gregory VII., Hilde_ -.
was now in the papal chair. He dispatched a legate to the brand
German emperor, forbidding him to exercise the rights of inves- vl™*_
titure. Henry treated his messenger with contempt, convoked Jj^jjJ
an assembly of his princes and ecclesiastics, and declared popes.
Gregory a usurper of the papacy. Gregory, fully aware of boHdely
the disaffection of the German nobles, pronounced a sentence claims
of excommunication against Henry, absolving his subjects from 'JJ^fJl
their allegiance, and depriving him of his imperial authority, minion.
The German nobles, thus encouraged, revolted, and the German
clergy, who had just before declared Gregory an usurper, now
espoused his cause.
8. Henry, surrounded with dangers, saw no safety but in ap-
peasing the wrath of the pope. With this view, he passed the 10T6.
Alps, and accompanied by only a few domestics, proceeded to Mean-
Canosa, where Gregory then was, and presented himself as a Henry,
penitent at the gates of the fortress. The monarch was only and ar-
admitted within the outer court. There, wrapped in sackcloth, severity
with his feet bare, he was detained three days in the month of o{othee
January, before the haughty pontiff would admit him to his pre-
sence. The penance of Henry, and his promise to submit in
all things, at length procured him absolution.
9. The reconciliation, however, was short; the arrogance of Henry's
the pope had alienated the minds of the Italian princes, and a second
strong party was formed in Henry's favor. He renewed the with the
war, but while engaged with the Italians against the pope, his P°Pe-
German subjects revolted. A second excommunication was wolf-
thundered against him by Gregory, who again deposed him, ff%™_
and declared Rodolph, duke of Swabia, emperor. Henry, aug- ringia.
mented his party in Germany, and convening a few bishops who ^felts
adhered to him, he degraded Gregory and appointed another Ro-
pope. He defeated and slew Rodolph, when his followers dis- ^J1-;
persed. Henry then returned to Italy, laid siege to Rome, and kined
continued it for two years, when at length the city was carried iance of
by assault. Gregory escaped, but shortly after died. Henry JJjj^.
procured the consecration of Clement III. After the emperor's ion.)
G. What was the point in dispute between the popes and emperors re-
specting investiture, or investing with authority ? Who was Henry IV. ? —
7. What pope was his opponent ? What course did he pursue towards
Henry ? How did Henry retaliate ? How did the German nobles now
conduct ?— 8. Relate the abject submission of Henry, and the conduct of
the pope. — 9. Whom in this contest did the Italians favor ? Whom did the
Germans ? By what parties was the battle of Wolfsheim fought, and what
were its results ?
28
218 RISE OF THE ITALIAN REPUBLICS.
Middle Hist, return to Germany, his enemies deposed Clement, and elected
peri'Div. Victor, whose early death made way for Urban If. He re-
chap. m. newed the war of the investitures, and embroiled Henry in a
'^^^^^ quarrel with his son, Conrad. This brings the history of Ger-
many to the period when the council of Clermont decided upon
the first crusade.
10. ITALY.— When on the death of Charles the Fat, the
empire of the west passed from the Carlovingian family, the go-
vernment of Italy was usurped by the principal nobles. Of
these, the dukes of Spoletto and Tuscany, and the Marquises of
Pavia, Susa and Friuli, were the most powerful. The great
duchy of Benevento, had been divided into the principalities of
Benevento, Salerno and Capua. Apulia and Calabria were still
divfdTlfa d sukiecti io ^ie emperor of the east, JYaples and Amalfi were re-
desoiated. publics, under the protection of the Grecian empire. Rome was
subject to the pope. For seventy years the sovereignty of Italy,
though little more than a name, was the subject of contest be-
tween the most ambitious and powerful nobles. The northern
parts were desolated by the Hungarians, while the southern
coasts were subject to the inroads of the Saracens, who had
made themselves masters of Sicily.
11. It was at this time that the assistance of Otho the Great
was sought. He marched into Italy, and received, at Milan, the
iron crown of the Lombards, and at Rome, from the pope, the
golden crown of the empire ; thus reviving in his person, the
936. title of emperor of the Romans, which had been extinct for forty
otho the years. Otho, and his immediate successors, exercised the pre-
as a1 del!- rogatives with which the emperors of the west had formerly
verer, fixes Deen endowed. They repeatedly marched into Italy at the head
sovereignty, of armies, received the homage of the Italian states, exacted their
rents, and promulgated their laws. The tie which bound Italy
to the German empire was, however, growing weak. The dis-
tance of the emperor prevented the continued and energetic ex-
ercise of the imperial prerogative, and a spirit of freedom was
enkindled.
12. The dangers with which the cities were surrounded,
compelled the inhabitants to provide for their own defence, and
by permission they rebuilt their walls. The protection they
thus afforded, drew multitudes of the country people within
them. Their population and wealth rapidly increased. Obe-
Riseofthe dience to the dukes, counts, or marquises, was thrown off, and
Italian the people of the cities elected their own magistrates. The war
"ecome the of the investitures, in which the cities engaged, part of them on
Italian re- tne s[(\e 0f the emperor, part on that of the pope, showed these
little communities their importance, and contributed to diffuse a
republican spirit. In Lombardy, Milan was the most import-
ant of these independent governments. There existed at this
IO. Describe the condition of Italy? — 11. What crowns did Otho the
Great receive? What occurred after his death? — 12. Describe the man-
ner of the growth of the Italian cities ? Of their becoming republics ? What
five are here mentioned ?
THE BROTHERS ROBERT AND ROGER.
219
period, still older republics, which had arisen from the ruins of
the Grecian possessions — Venice, Ravenna, Genoa, and Pisa.
13. When Attila drove from their homes the inhabitants of
Aquileia and Padua, they found a refuge on some islands in the
Adriatic, where they built and settled, calling their city Rialto.
It gradually increased in population, and was subject to the By-
zantine empire, till the tenth century. It then became commer-
cial and independent, and conquered the adjoining territories
called Venetia, Istria and Dalmatia.
14. Early in the eleventh century, the Normans were em-
ployed by a prince of Salerno, against the Saracens, who had
invaded his territories. Fresh adventurers from the north
flocked into Italy, where they founded the small city of Aversa
near Capua. A difficulty respecting their pay, at length pro-
duced a war between the Normans, and their employers. They
invaded Apulia, which they soon subdued. After the conquest
of the Grecian possessions of Italy, the republics of Naples and
Jimalji, fell before the invaders. The sovereignty of Jipulia
was conferred upon Robert Guiscard, one of the renowned
brothers, sons of Tancred, lord of Hauteville, in Normandy.
15. The pope, Leo IX., formed a league with the emperor of
Constantinople against the Normans, and Leo marched in person
against Robert, but was defeated and taken prisoner. The de-
votion of the Normans dictated the most honorable treatment to
the head of the church, and the warriors knelt to implore his
forgiveness for arming in their own defence. The pope granted
them absolution, and conferred upon them the sovereignty of
the country they had conquered, which they now held as a
fief of the holy see. Roger, the brother of Robert Guiscard,
conquered the Saracens of Sicily, and made himself master of
the island. Robert next directed his views towards the eastern
empire. At the head of his Normans he advanced into Epirus,
took the city of Durazzo, and obtained a complete victory over
the army of the Greek emperor, Alexius Comnenus. His
successes in Greece, however, were of no permanent advantage.
Robert was recalled to Italy by the revolt of some of the cities
of Apulia. In the war of the investitures, he afforded powerful
aid to pope Gregory VII., and at length gave him an asylum
when driven from Rome.
Middle Hist.
PERI'DIV.
CHAP. III.
452.
Venice
founded.
1060.
The Nor-
mans called
in to aid
against the
Saracens,
take the
country
themselves.
Robert
surnamed
Guiscard,
(or the
cunning,)
makes the
pope
prisoner.
1060
to
1090.
Roger con-
quers Sicily.
Robert
makes war
upon
Alexius
Comnenus.
1082.
DURAZZO
Robert
Affords aid
to Gre-
gory VII.
13. When and how was Venice founded? — 14:. Describe the rise of the
kingdom of Naples? — 15. What league was formed against the Normans ?
Which of the sons of Tancred of Normandy conquered Sicily ? What war
was afterwards made by Robert Guiscard ?
CHAPTER IV.
France, Spain, Russia, Greek Empire, &c.
Middle Hist. 1. FRANCE. — The princes of the Carlovingian family had
PERr~> Iv# become so insignificant, and the ties which bound the nation
chai iv. to its monarch were so slight, that the accession of Hugh
V*-"^V~N»-/ Capet, the founder of the new dynasty, was hardly considered
'The Ca- as an usurpation, and was attended with no disorder. After a
Dot inn -
Dynas- reign of eight years, Hugh transmitted the sovereignty to his
AGw sorl? Robert, whom he had already associated with himself in
Hugh the government. Robert was undisturbed by foreign foes, but
Capet, the discipline by which the papal power humbled and subjugated
Robert' kings, blasted his domestic happiness. He had married Bertha,
(Owing sister of Rodolph, king of Burgundy, his cousin in the fourth
terribfe degree, while the prohibition of the church extended to the se-
power venth; and Gregory V. ordered the dissolution of the marriage,
commit- under pain of excommunication. The king ventured to disregard
even Ms ^e thunders °f the Vatican,* aimed not only at him, but against
ser- all those who had abetted the offence. The bishops who had
would sanctioned the marriage were suspended. Robert soon expe-
not rienced how terrific the power of excommunication had become,
anyar- ^s courtiers and servants abandoned him. Two domestics
ti«jie were all who dared remain, and even these purified by fire the
had vessels used by the unfortunate prince, and threw the remaining
conta™ ^00<^ to tne dogs. The weak monarch, instead of arousing to
with the her defence, at length repudiated his blameless wife,
queen!) ^- Henry, his son and successor, being disturbed by do-
mestic conspiracies, sought aid of Robert, duke of Norman-
1031- dy? who re-established him upon the throne. In reward for this
Henry I- service, Henry added to his duchy Chaumont, Pontoise, and
other places which belonged to the crown. He was succeeded
1960. by his son Philip I., only eight years of age. During his
Philip I. minority the regency was committed to the pious and dignified
Baldwin, earl of Flanders, who preserved the peace of the
nation by being always ready for war. Philip was on the
throne of France, at the time when the council of Clermont
decided on the first crusade.
3. SPAIN. — It will be recollected that after" the conquest of
Spain by the Saracens and Moors, some of the Christian inha-
bitants fled to the mountains of the north, where they founded
* The palace of the popes of Rome is called the Vatican. The decrees
which the pope sent forth had become, from his great power, so terrible,
that they were expressively called " the thunders of the Vatican."
Chap. IV. — 1. What may be said of the accession of the Dynasty of
Capet in the room of the Carlovingian ? Under what circumstances had his
successor contracted marriage ? What was the consequence of his excom-
munication ? — 2. What account can you give of his successors ? — 3. What
country of Spain had not been conquered by the Moors ?
220
ASTURIAS THE GERM OF CHRISTIAN SPAIN.
221
the kingdom of Asturias. From this mountainous domain,
whose very insignificance proved its security, sprung- other
kingdoms, which eventually subdued the Mahometan power on
the peninsula. The descendants of the powerful Abderrhaman
had undermined their own strength by their frequent dissen-
sions ; and about the commencement of the eleventh century his
family became extinct; and the kingdom of Cordova was divided
into separate provinces, or petty kingdoms, over which the
principal nobles assumed the sovereignty. The Christian do-
minions in Spain had, at this time, become enlarged by en-
croachments upon the Saracens, and the kingdoms of Leon,
Castile, Navarre, and Jlrragon had each its respective monarch.
4. Sancho III., or the Great, united in his person the sove-
reignty of Navarre and Arragon; and his son Ferdinand made
himself master of Castile and Leon, so that the whole of Chris-
tian Spain was, in 1035, under the government of one family.
Alphonso VI., the successor of Ferdinand, recovered the city
of Toledo. The wars between the Christians and Moors, in
this century, are memorable for the display of valor and chi-
valry. Don Roderigo Dias de Bivar, called the Cid, (the
chief) was the most eminent of the Spanish knights, whose
exploits have descended to posterity glowing with all the ro-
mance of the age.
5. RUSSIA. — It was during this period that we first meet in
history, the name of Russians. In the ninth century they ap-
peared at Constantinople as traders, and exchanged their slaves,
furs, honey, and the hides of their cattle, for the corn, wine, oil,
manufactures and spices of Greece. The luxury and splendour
of Constantinople excited the desires of the barbarians, and
piratical expeditions were commenced. Their vessels, descend-
ing the Borysthenes, penetrated the Euxine, and spread desola-
tion through the province of Anatolia. At length the adventu-
rous Russians menaced Constantinople. In their first enterprise,
they entered the port during the absence of the emperor, Mi-
chael. A tempest destroyed their ships, and compelled them
to retreat.
6. Afterwards Nicephorus, emperor of Constantinople, in-
stigated Swatoslaus, prince of the Russians, to undertake the
conquest of the Bulgarians. The Russian prince having achieved
this, soon gave indication of his dangerous vicinity. At the
head of his barbarians he invaded the empire, and Nicephorus
found himself unable to cope with the enemy he had brought
upon his dominions. His successor, John Zimisces, was more
successful. He obtained repeated victories over the Russians,
drove them out of the empire, and pursued Swatoslaus to Dritza,
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. IV.
Sancho the
Great
IOOO.
Alphonso
VI.
1065-
The Cid.
9th century.
Russians
first known
in history.
Russians
threaten
Constanti-
nople.
Bulgaria
conquered
by the Rus-
sians.
Russians in-
vade the
Greek em-
pire.
3. What sprung from it ? What was the condition of the Saracens of
Spain? What four Christian kingdoms had arisen? — 4r. Which of them
did Sancho the Great govern ? Which his son ? Who is the most noted
of the Spanish knights ? — 5. Give an account of the Russians in their first
invasion of the Greek empire ?— 6. What was done by the Russians under
Swatoslaus ?
222
ALEXIUS COMNENUS.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. IV.
963.
Phocas.
98®.
05-^ Zimis-
^ ces.
O
o
S
1059.
Isaac
1
110s.
Alexius.
1082.
DU-
RJiZ-
zo.
Robert
Guis-
card
defeats
Alexius
a post on the Danube to which he had retreated. Here he be-
sieged him, and compelled him and the remnant of his follow-
ers, to return to their nation.
7. Olga, the mother of Swatoslaus, was a princess of un-
common character. She bad early embraced Christianity, and
received baptism from the patriarch of Constantinople. Her
zealous efforts to Christianize her barbarous subjects had, how-
ever, proved ineffectual ; even her son having rigidly adhered
to the ancient religion. Yet the example and influence of Olga
were not without effect. Her grandson Vlodomir, on his mar-
riage with Anna, a princess of Constantinople, renounced ido-
latry, and embraced the Christian faith. Her efforts to civilize
her subjects, evinced a mind far in advance of the age in which
she lived, and Vlodomir pursued the course marked out by her
superior wisdom.
8. THE GREEK EMPIRE.— Basil, the Macedonian, was
the founder of a new dynasty. He restored in some measure the
falling honor of the empire, and rendered it again formidable to
the barbarians and the Saracens. The reigns also of Njcepho-
rus Phocas, and of his successor, John Zimisces, are signalized
by their military spirit. John Zimisces conquered the Russians,
penetrated Syria, and not only recovered Antioch from the
Saracens, but passed the Euphrates, and made himself master
of many Saracen cities. After these successes, the empire again
sunk into insignificance, under the government of weak and
effeminate princes. In the reign of Michael VI., the last of the
Macedonian race, the Greeks awoke to a sense of their degra-
dation, and invested Isaac Comnenus with the imperial purple.
The Comneni were an illustrious family of Roman origin.
Isaac, who was first raised to the imperial dignity, enjoyed his
elevation but two years, when his declining health induced
him to abdicate.
9. Alexius Comnenus, who succeeded him, filled the By-
zantine throne at the time of the first crusade. Dangers sur-
rounded the empire on every side. The provinces of the east
had been conquered by the Turks, while the Greek possessions
in Italy had been usurped by the Normans, who were advancing
to Constantinople. Alexius found himself without soldiers, and
with an exhausted treasury; yet compelled to maintain a con-
test with powerful enemies. He made the best preparations in
his power, assembled an army, and marched into Epirus, to
• meet the Normans, who, under Robert Guiscard, had laid seige
to Durazzo. Alexius was defeated; yet, amid all his calamities,
he sustained himself with dignity, as is shown in the excellent
7. Give some account of Olga. — 8. What dynasty acceded to the do-
minion of the Eastern empire in 867 ? Give an account of the founder.
What three reigns (the two first not consecutive,) are signalized by energy
and military talent ? What conquests were made by the last of the three ?
What after this became the condition of the empire ? What change of dy
nasties occurred ? — 9. Give an account of the second of the Comneni.
Who invaded his empire ? What battle was fought ?
DECLINE AND FALL OF THE CALIPHATE. 223
history of the times, written by his daughter, Anna Comnena, jjgge Hist.
the best writer of that age, and the most renowned of female peri-d iv.
historians. The conquests of the Normans were staj^ed by the chap. iv.
return of Robert to Italy, where, having restored tranquillity, v-**~v"">w
he resumed his eastern enterprise Alexius had improved his (Three naval
naval force, and now disputed with the Norman chief the do- merits with
minion of the sea. Three engagements took place near the ^ansV
island of Corfu ; the third resulting in a victory of the Nor-
mans. But the death of Robert relieved the empire from its
most formidable enemy.
10. Ex\lPIRE OF THE CALIPHS.— Haroun al Raschid 8©?. 1
(Aaron the Just) was the sixth of the Abassides. His empire r0Urfai
was more extensive, his power more absolute, and his court B^B-
more splendid, than that of any other monarch of his age.
While literature graced his luxurious capital, his victorious arms
spread terror through the west. But he was killed in quelling Haroun
a rebellion in Khorasan. The succession was disputed be- al,^a?"
tween his sons, and a civil war ended in the elevation of the killed in
youngest, Al Mamon, who was even more distinguished than J^jJjJ
his father for patronage of arts and letters. In his reign lion in
volumes of Grecian science were translated into the Arabic ^arf"
language, and every facility and encouragement afforded to the
study of the sciences. He conquered Sicily and Crete.
11. But even in that magnificent reign, the decline of the em-
pire had begun. Motassem, the successor of Al Mamon, es-
tablished a guard of 50,000 Turks for the security of his Tl^|jfsn
throne ; these soon, like the praetorians of Rome, assassinated guards
and elevated sovereigns at pleasure. At length their chief was trhuelepa"
called " Emir al Omrah," " Commander of Commanders," and lace,
ruled in the palace as the mayors had in France. The caliph
came to be considered merely as the chief ecclesiastical officer. Cor^°rj
Spain, as we have seen, had revolted, and placed the last of the 300,000
Ommiyades, Abdalrahman, upon the throne of Cordova, and anTfts'
even his descendants had passed away, and his kingdom been court
rent into fragments. Fez was built and made the capital of a Wmosthe
petty kingdom. Three dynasties had arisen in Africa in the splendid
commencement of the ninth century, and in the tenth, the de- ^ope."
scendants of Fatima wrested from the Abassides the province of
Egypt, and established their throne at Cairo.
12. RISE OF THE TURKISH POWER.— While the empire
of the caliphs was thus dismembered, the power of the Turks
was rising into consequence. It is believed that they possessed
9. Who was Anna Comnena? For what is she distinguished? —
10. Who were the most distinguished caliphs of the Abassides? What
was the condition of the caliphate under these two, and what soon after?
1 1. What was established by Al Mamon's successor ? What happened in
consequence of keeping such a standing army ? What was the condition
of the independent kingdom whose seat was Cordova ? What city in Africa
had been built as a seat of a petty empire ? How many such empires ex-
isted in Africa independent of Bagdad in the ninth century ? What princi-
pal province of Africa did the Abbassides lose in the tenth century? — 12.
What account is here given of the Turks ?
224
MAHMOUD THE GHAZNEVIDE.
Middle Hist.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. IV.
§ Alp
S Tegin.
A.
g i Capital
Ghaz-
ii], in
Khora-
Avicenna.
(As a physi-
cian marvel-
lous cures
are ascribed
to him.)
(Mahmoud
made
twelve ex-
peditions to
India.)
1032.
Tagrul
Beg.
Near the
JIHOM
defeats
Masoud.
i
&2
10T4.
Malek
Shah.
Soli-
10?6.
Jerusa-
lem
taken
by the
Turks.
an ancient Scythian empire, but it had long been dissolved, and
now powerful and independent tribes were widely scattered
throughout the interior of Asia. Slaves and soldiers of Turkish ex-
traction, were in the service of every monarch of Asia. The prin-
cipality of Ghazni, in Khorasan, was founded by Alp Tegin,
who rose from the condition of a slave. The most distinguished
sovereign of the Ghaznevide dynasty, was Mahmoud. He was
the patron of science, which now centred rather at Ghazni than
at Bagdad. Avicenna, uthe prince of Arabian philosophers and
physicians," flourished during his reign. This great genius, at
the age of twenty-one, undertook the first Encyclopedia which
was ever compiled, and carried out his plan in twenty volumes,
entitling his work " The Utility of Utilities." Besides this, he
wrote seventeen other works, translations of which were the only
books on mathematics and physics in use in the schools of Eu-
rope in the twelfth century. Mahmoud added Transoxania and
Persia to his dominions, and extended his conquests to Hindos-
tan. He conquered the cities of Delhi, Lahore, and Multan, thus
extending to the remote east the religion of the Moslems, which
the Turks had embraced. The caliph of Bagdad conferred on
him the title of sultan of Ghazni, and his authority was acknow-
ledged from the Caspian to the Indus.
13. Tagrul Beg, a valiant Turk of the family of Seljouk
of Samarcand, was the founder of the Seljoukian dynasty. He
passed the Jihon, defeated Masoud, then sultan of Ghazni,
and received from the caliph of Bagdad the title of sultan.
He delivered the caliph from the oppression of the Turkish
and Arabian emirs, and restored to him the city and district
of Bagdad. Malek Shah, the second prince from Tagrul, was
one of the most powerful conquerors of his age. He extended
his dominions from the borders of China to the neighbourhood
of Constantinople. The reign of Malek was peaceful and pros-
perous, and through his liberality, the literature of the east re-
vived. On his death, the empire ivas divided among his sons ;
the Persian kingdom, as that to which the others were in some
measure subordinate, being given to the eldest. Soliman, of
the family of Seljouk, was a renowned and powerful sovereign.
His interference was felt in the affairs of the Greek empire, as
we find him establishing one of the emperors upon the throne.
Under this valiant Turk, Jerusalem, Antioch, and at length all
Asia Minor was subdued. Alexius, emperor of Constantino-
ple, trembled for the safety of his empire, now also threatened
by the Normans. He was forced to comply with the demands
of the Turks, and confirm by treaty the conquests of Soliman.
12. Who was the founder of the dynasty of the Ghaznevides? What
and where was his capital ? Give an account of the most distinguished of
the Ghaznevides. Give an account of Avicenna. What dynasty supplanted
the Ghaznevides? — 13. Give an account of Tagrul Beg — Of Malek Shah —
Of Soliman. Notice particularly what cities he took, and how far he ex-
tended the Turkish dominions.
Preaching of Peter the Hermit.
PERIOD V-
THE COMMENCEMENT f 1100. < OF THE CRUSADES
TO
RY > 1492. < OF AMERICA,
THE DISCOVER1
CHAPTER I.
Pilgrimages. — Chivalry. — The Crusades.
1. As the spiritual worship of the early Christians was ex-
changed for the frivolous rites and idle ceremonies of later days,
the possession of relics, and pilgrimages made to holy places,
became objects of eager desire, and substitutes for personal
piety. Of all pilgrimages, that to the holy sepulchre of Jerusa-
lem was the most frequently made, and considered the most
meritorious. It was performed by multitudes of devotees from
every part of Europe. After the holy city fell into the hands
of the Saracens, these pilgrimages, though attended with more
difficulty and danger, were still continued. The caliph Haroun
al Raschid afforded protection to the Christian pilgrims, even
presenting to Charlemagne the keys of the holy sepulchre. His
successors, the Abassides, pursued, as we have seen, the same
tolerant system. But when the Fatimites of Africa obtained
possession of Palestine and Syria, the pilgrims suffered from
them severe persecution. Under the reign of Hakem, the third
caliph of the Fatimite race, Christian churches were demolished,
Middle Hist
PERIOD V.
CHAF. 7.
PitorimaL'es
to thp Holy
Sepulchre.
The Abassi-
des protect
the pilgrims.
The Fati-
mite? perse
cute them.
Period V. — Chap. I. — 1. For what had the spiritual worship of the early
Christians been exchanged ? What then became objects of desire ? —
what besides objects of desire did relics and pilgrimages become ? Which
was regarded as the most meritorious pilgrimage ? Were there many that
performed it ? How did the Abassides treat the pilgrims ? How did the
Fatimites ?
29 225
226 CHIVALRY KNIGHTHOOD.
Middle Hist, the destruction of the sepulchre attempted, and many Christians
period v. suffered death. Under the succeeding caliphs, however, a tole-
chap. i. rant spirit revived, and pilgrimages became more frequent than
v-^N/^*w/ ever. Policy might dictate this course, as the treasury of the
caliphs was replenished by the tribute which procured the pro-
tection of the devotees.
2. Two years preceding the first crusade, pilgrimages had in-
creased to an unparalleled extent, and multitudes of every age,
and rank, and sex, thronged the roads to Jerusalem. The holy
The Turks land now came into possession of the Turkish hordes ; and the
^""racenV6 pilgrims, who with toil and suffering had pressed their way
msterToT ^rom {^e rnost distant Parts °f Christendom, often found them-
the Holy selves on their arrival at the holy city, debarred from entrance,
Land. j,y ciemancis which they were unable to meet, and thus deprived
of the object for which their sufferings had been endured. Mul-
Thepiigrims titudes perished by want; and of the thousands who directed
in distress, their enthusiastic way to Asia, few returned to their homes.
3. These brought accounts of their injuries to their brethren
in Europe. If in our days such devotees had existed, and had
uttered complaints, the calm of society would not have been
broken. The effects then produced, show how powerfully re-
ligious faith animated the mass ; and not more remarkable is the
stupidity with which the people rejected the Savior, with all his
The eo le 1Tngnty works, than the zeal with which they were now ready
reject the to sacrifice every thing to rescue his sepulchre. Yet had this
nght°forahis deeP feelmg existed in the minds of the Christian eommu-
sepuichre. nity one hundred years earlier, its dictates could not have been
carried into action. But in the meantime, a spirit had been pro-
duced, and an institution had arisen which while it was im-
bued with the superstition of the times, was yet more honor-
able to man, than any other merely human. This was the spirit
of chivalry and the institution of knighthood, which, connected
with Christianity, laid the foundation of a new, and eventually
a better order of things.
chivalry 4. Chivalry arose in Normandy, in the eleventh century,
arose in There the home-born oppressions of the castled barons was se-
N?n The dy vere^7 ^L Those petty princes were leading their followers to
eleventh perpetual wars, and outrage and licentiousness filled the land*
century. wni}e no government existed which could protect the weak
against the strong. Then the spirit of virtuous indignation
against oppression — of deep faith in Christianity, and of newly
awakened admiration of the female sex, induced a band of noble
minded young men to dedicate themselves in the fear of God
to right the wrongs which existed around them. The priest
2. What is said of the acquisitions of the Turks ? How did they treat the
pilgrims ? — 3. Suppose in our day such complaints had been made ? What
do we find then remarkable in the spirit of those times ? Could that spirit
have been carried into action much earlier ? What spirit and what institu
tion had arisen ? — 4\ When and where did it arise ? What oppressions gave
rise to it ? What was the spirit of chivalry ? To what did the knights de
vote themselves ?
s a sonnd
mind.
A BETTER STYLE OF MEN AND WOMEN. 227
hood sanctioned these resolutions, and the order of knighthood MUMe Hist,
began. period v.
5. Each member of the order possessed the power to confer chap. i.
it, on such candidates as had proved themselves worthy by vir- ^-^^^s^
tuous deeds and valorous exploits ; and knighthood soon be-
came an honor to which kings and princes aspired. A conscious
loftiness of purpose, and a firm persuasion of the protection of
heaven, bore the knights almost above humanity. They ne-
glected nothing which could increase and preserve their physi- Jj® knight
' t n-ii. j .1 i r l xi • takes great
cai powers. 1 hey inured themselves trom early youth to in- caretopos-
credible labors and privations, which made them strong and bodyjasweil
hardy; and for self-preservation against the arms in use, they a
cased their persons in steel armor, so heavy, that a man of mo-
derate strength at this day could scarcely lift its weight. The
war-horse which bore him to battle, was cared for by the cham- (Ij[fe t?uTto°
pion, as a mother cares for her child. The true knight pos- "God and $
sessed the perfection of manners, — courtesy, controlled by
candor. To maintain truth in word and act, was a part of his
vow. He was not ashamed of his religion, or his love, and
never spoke lightly of the one or the other.
6. In the meantime, the female character and condition had The regene-
been changed by the introduction of Christianity, which showed gating in-
that women had an equal share with men, in the grace of God Christianity
and the blessings of immortality. The virtues which elevate the 0r™ctS and
sex were taught and enforced. Men received special directions, condition of
from Christ and his apostles, in regard to their treatment of the
weaker sex; which moderated their tyranny, and restrained their The feudal
licentiousness. The feudal system, co-operating with these bringJanew
causes, produced an entire new feature in modern civil iza- feature into
, F -, . . f. , -, .. . . modern ci-
tion, which was now arising from the ashes of the ancient, viiization.
This was domestic society. The hereditary baron in his proud
castle, surrounded with his serfs and menials, was a petty so-
vereign ; and but for the society of his own family, must have {J regarded
been reduced to utter solitude. His wife and daughters thus astyranni-
came to be known and appreciated, as the dispensers of domes- wom^n are
tic joy. Woman being now beheld in her proper niche, — her disposed of
style of character changed by Christianity, — seemed invested without
with a new and holy light. Men of finer mould, such as knight- ^g^)
hood found or made, seemed awe-struck, and almost rendered
idolatrous worship.
7. Peter the Hermit, a native of Amiens, in France, re-
returned from a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where his enthusiasm
had been fed, and his resentment enkindled. He hastened to
5. What power did each knight possess ? Who aspired to be knights?
What mentally and physically bore up the knights and fitted them for high
achievements? Did they neglect their own health, or even that of their
war-steeds? In what respect had the true knight the highest style of fine
manners ? — 6. What had effected a change in the character and condition
of women? In what respect did it show them on an equality with men?
What precepts of Christianity operated in favor of women? What effect
had the feudal system on modern civilization ? How did it operate to pro-
duce this effect ?
228 EUROPE IN ARMS.
Middle Hist, visit the pope, Urban II., and with his approbation the enthu-
period v. siastic Peter went through Europe, publishing the sufferings of
chap. i. the pilgrims, and calling on Christain warriors to have pity upon
^-"^^w their brethren, — to go up to battle in the name of the Lord, and
1095. no longer suffer the holy sepulchre to be defiled by infidels.
PHeermue ^he hearts °f the people burned as he spoke, and the flame
rouses up spread from city to city, from country to country. Every-
aireadyPby where the holy Peter was received with rapture. The pope
previous ac- called a council at Placentia. Ambassadors were here received
C°pared.re" from Alexius Comnenus, emperor of the east, who had pre-
1095- viously sent to beg the aid of the western powers against the
cans'? coun- Turks by whom Constantinople was threatened ■ and he now
cii at Pia- reiterated his petition, and plead the danger of delay.
taiy. S. A second council was convened in the autumn of the
same year at Clermont, to make a final decision. An immense
councTat multitude of priests, princes, and nobles were present ; and so
Clermont, great was the concourse of people, that the city was filled, and
thousands compelled to erect shelters in the fields. Urban ad-
dressed the assembled crowds, and with the most persuasive
eloquence depicted the horrors of infidel oppression, the duty
Eloquence °^ armmg m the defence of the holy cause, and the rewards
of Urban, of the faithful. The effect was overwhelming; the crowds
slafrh ofthe sent forth> simultaneously, the shout " God wills it." " God
people, wills it." " It is the will of God," replied the pope, " and let
this memorable word, the inspiration surely of the Holy Spirit,
be forever adopted as the battle-cry, to animate the devotion
and courage of the champions of Christ." The sign of the
cross was immediately impressed on the right shoulders of the
garments of the champions ; the pope pronounced the absolu-
tion of their sins, and the multitude separated to prepare for
the war.
1096. 9. The 15th of August following, was fixed for the depar-
o^crus^ders ture °f the pilgrims ; but so eager were the lower orders, and
under Peter so incapable of appreciating the necessity of preparation, that
crowds, under the command of Walter the Pennyless,
and Peter the Hermit, took their departure early in the
spring. Walter was possessed of considerable military talent,
but the multitudes who marched under his standard were un-
disciplined and ungovernable. The crowd who followed Peter
were, if possible, still more licentious. Before they reached
Constantinople, many of these crusaders had fallen by skir-
Are de- mishes with the Hungarians and Bulgarians. From Constanti-
SHungary nople they crossed the Bosphorus, but in their progress through
andBuiga- Bithynia, nearly the whole fell an easy conquest to the Turks.
Peter returned to Constantinople, and Walter fell in battle.
10. But while these undisciplined bodies were hurrying to de-
struction, the chivalry of Europe, under their most warlike and
?. Who first preached a crusade? How was his preaching received?
Who was the pope, and what course did he take ? — 8. Describe the coun
cil at Clermont. — 9. Give an account of the first army of crusaders.
THE FIRST CRUSADE. 229
able commanders, were preparing for more regular warfare. M^die Hist.
The most renowned chiefs of the first crusade were Godfrey period v.
of Bouillon, duke of Lorraine ; Hugh, count of Vermandois, chap. i.
brother of the French king; Robert, duke of Normandy, son v^^v^*-/
of William the Conqueror; Robert, count of Flanders; Ray- The knights
mond, count of Toulouse; Adhemar, Bishop of Puy, and manders of
Bohemond, prince of Tarentum, son of Robert Guiscard. It theaJmUlar
was under his banners that Tancred, his kinsman, and the
pride of European chivalry, marched. These various forces,
under the command of their respective chiefs, took separate
routes for Constantinople.
11. Hugh of Vermandois was the first who reached the do-
minions of Alexius Comnenus. Here he had expected friend- Etf?e east*
ship and welcome, but he was, on his arrival, arrested and treats the
imprisoned. The emperor of the east was conscious of his "with™
weakness, and though when he supplicated aid from the west, cruelty,
he would gladly have received a few thousand troops, he was
alarmed at such formidable and warlike hosts. " It seemed,"
says the princess Anna Comnena, " as if all Europe, loosened
from its foundation, was precipitating itself upon Asia." On
the arrival of Godfrey, Hugh was released, not however, until
he had done homage to the emperor of the east. The policy
of Alexius was to preserve his own sovereignty, and to convey
from Constantinople one army, previous to the arrival of another.
12. Before the walls of Nice, now made the capital of the 109'Y.
Seljoukian kingdom, the several bodies of crusaders met and Nic^'the
besieged the city. Robert of Normandy arrived after the com- £aP|tEj! of
mencement of the siege. Peter the Hermit also joined them kias!be-~
with the small wreck of his host. The number of the crusaders takegndbanadn
after this junction, is computed at six hundred thousand armed army of
warriors. While tTie Christians besieged his capital, Soliman, cru°s°aders.
who had been assembling his warriors from the distant parts of
his dominions, arrived on the mountains, in view of the Chris-
tian camp. A battle ensued, the Turks were defeated, and
obliged to retreat. After a few weeks the city surrendered.
13. The efforts of Soliman in raising another army were
unremitting and vigorous, and when, after the surrender of the
city, the crusaders commenced their march, he surprised them
in Phyrgia and gave them battle, but the Christians were again Crusaders
triumphant. Great numbers in both armies fell. The Turks, ^ous over"
who saved themselves by retreat, proceeded next to desolate the Turks,
the country through which the route of the crusaders lay.
Thus the difficulties of their march increased, and numbers
sunk under hardships. After halting a while at Antiochetta,
the army proceeded on their march towards Antioch.
14. After an unsuccessful attempt at storming this city, its
IO. Who were the chiefs of the regular army?— 11. How did Alexius
Comnenus treat the crusaders ? What was his daughter's expression re- ^
specting the number of the crusaders?— 12. Give an account of the siege
of Nice as to the besiegers. What did the suhan S'oliman ? — 13. What v.
happened to the crusaders on their way from Nice to Antioch ?
230
DESTRUCTIVE SIEGE OF ANTIOCH.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. I.
The cru-
saders be-
sieged in
Antioch by
the Persians
and Turks.
Priests re-
sort to the
aid of super-
stition .
(" Those
that hide
can find.")
4NT10CH.
The cru-
saders de-
feat the
Turks and
Persians.
Loss of the
vanquished
69,000.
October.
1099.
siege was commenced. For seven months it continued with
little prospect of success, when, one night, the commander of
one of the towers treacherously admitted a body of the cru-
saders within the city. The Turks, awakened by the horns
giving signal to the army without the walls, rushed to arms,
and the sanguinary and hopeless contest continued through the
night. The gates were opened to the army without, and in
the confusion and darkness, many Christians, as well as Turks,
fell by the hands of their brethren. In the fanaticism of the
moment, the most horrid excesses and cruelties were committed.
Though the Christians obtained possession of the city, the
citadel was still occupied by the Turks. The small supplies
of provisions which the Christians found within the city were
soon exhausted, and before measures could be taken for pro-
curing more, an immense army, under the command of the
Persian Emir, appeared before the walls. The successes of the
Christians had alarmed the Mahometan powers, and the repre-
sentations of Soliman had roused them to aid in the defence of
his kingdom.
15. The crusaders were in their turn besieged. The Persian
Emir and Soliman had joined their forces, and were now set
down before Antioch, with three hundred thousand men. The
most horrible famine prevailed in the Christian army. Their
horses were slain for food, while within their view, the Turkish
camp displayed every luxury. When thus reduced to the
utmost distress, the superstition of the soldiers was called in
aid. Either deluded by their enthusiastic imagination, or prac-
tising deception, the priests declared they saw visions from
heaven encouraging them to persevere, and promising them vic-
tory. A monk asserted that the place where the lance which
pierced the Savior's side was buried, was revealed to him, with
directions to procure it, and assurances of victory when in
possession of this holy relic. Search was made, and after
some digging, the monk descended into the excavation and
returned with the lance. The hearts of the soldiers revived,
and being purified by the customary rights of the church, the
following morning they advanced, full of assurance, against the
infidels, although vastly inferior in numbers The battle was,
on the part of the Turks, bravely and obstinately fought. A
cry arose among the crusaders that the saints were seen fight-
ing on their side. This gave to the fanatical host resistless
might, and the Turks fled in confusion. Their camp fell into
the hands of the victors, and abundance succeeded to famine.
16. The chiefs delayed two months in Antioch, when a se-
vere pestilence swept away multitudes of their followers. In
October they marched, and at length arrived in sight of the
14. Give an account of the taking of Antioch. What army appears
against the crusaders ? — 15. What was now the condition of the crusading
army? By what means did the priests animate the soldiers? What was
the result of the battle? — 16. With what numbers, and at what time did
the crusaders march from Antioch to Jerusalem ?
JERUSALEM TAKEN BY THE CRUSADERS.
231
holy city. Dissensions had arisen, but the knights laid them jfigfc Hist.
aside by mutual concessions, and directed every thought to their period v.
common object. Though now reduced to less than sixty chap. ii.
thousand men, the most vigorous preparations were made for
the assault of the city. Moveable towers, and all the imple-
ments of destruction known to the warriors of the eleventh
century were prepared. Efforts of valour almost incredible
were made by the chiefs during the two days of the assault. They take
At length they gained the battlements, and there planted the l storm. Y
standard of the cross. A most dreadful massacre followed, and 1099-
the blood of thousands polluted the holy places of Jerusalem.
17. The object of the war being accomplished in the deliver-
ance of the holy sepulchre, the crusaders now bent their
thoughts to the permanent establishment of their power. God- amcelon.
frey of Buillon, the most deserving of their chiefs, was elected king of Je-
king of Jerusalem. He soon found himself compelled to en- JJjjJJJ^
gage in new conflicts, and at Askelon he encountered and de- .Moslem
feated a great army of Moslems. On the death of Godfrey, ^"oqo foot,
after much dissension, Baldwin, his brother, received the and 100,000
crown. Under his administration, the kingdom of Jerusalem
flourished. His army triumphed over the Turks, Persians and
Saracens combined. Acre, Tripolis, and Sidon were taken;
and also, in 1124, by the aid of the Venetians, Tyre was added
to the kingdom of Jerusalem. Thus had this vast movement 1124.
broken for the time the power of the Turks. Had the Chris-
tians remained at home they would probably have been obliged
to receive its shock at their own doors.
CHAPTER II.
The Greek Empire. — Germany. — France.
1. THE GREEK EMPIRE.— The emperor Alexius, equally 1097-
alarmed by the encroachments of the Turks in Asia, and the c^y'0f
swarm of pilgrim warriors from Europe, pursued a treacherous Alexius,
course of policy, by which he designed to benefit his own
kingdom, whichever way the fortune of war might incline.
Thus, while he urged the Christians to the prosecution of the
holy war, he afforded them no aid, but rather impeded their
movements. On the surrender of Nice to the crusaders, a
secret treaty was completed between an agent of Alexius and
the Turks, by which that city became the prize of the Grecian enlarges
emperor. While the Christians proceeded onwards to Jerusa- hisireem"
lem, and occupied the attention and strength of the Mahometan
powers, Alexius recovered by his arms possession of many of
16. Describe the taking of the city.' — IT. What was the next object of
the crusaders? Who was the first king of Jerusalem? Give an account
of the kingdom during the reign of Baldwin. What had this vast move-
ment accomplished ?
Chap. II.— 1. What was the policy of the emperor Alexius Comnenus?
232
THE WARS OF THE INVESTITURES.
Middle Hist.
1143.
Manuel.
1084.
Henry IV.
wars
against two
other popes
and his two
sons.
1106.
Henry V.
carries on
with the
popes the
war for pre-
eminence,
called the
war of the
investitures.
1119.
Tope and
emperor re-
conciled.
1125.
Lothaire of
Saxony.
the cities of Asia Minor, and of some of the islands which had
been conquered by the Turks. He thus transmitted his empire
to his successors with its boundaries enlarged, and its internal
affairs in a prosperous condition.
2. John, his son and successor, swayed the imperial sceptre
twenty-five years with vigor and clemency. The penalty of
death was abolished during his reign. Manuel, a warrior of
great physical strength and prowess, was the son and successor
of John. He was occupied with a series of wars against the
Turks, and the barbarians beyond the Danube. After his reign
a period of fifty years occurs where the Byzantine history pre-
sents no prominent name or event.
3. GERMANY. — The war of the investitures did not cease
with the death of Gregory VI 1. Urban II. pursued the same
design of aggrandizing the Roman See, and Henry IV. of Ger-
many, the same resolution of keeping the power of the emperor
superior to that of the pope. At the instigation of Urban, Con-
rad, the son of Henry, rebelled, — assumed the title of king of
Italy, and induced many of the cities to submit to his govern-
ment. Meanwhile, the death of Conrad and Urban, while it
changed the actors on the scene, did not change the current of
events. Pascal II., successor of Urban, excommunicated the
emperor, and induced his younger son, Henry, to revolt and
assume the imperial honors. Henry IV. was deposed, and he
who had fought sixty battles was reduced to such extreme dis-
tress, that he applied for the place of under- chanter in a church
at Spires, and was refused, where gratitude was his due. But
his fortunes seemed again rising, when he died.
4. No sooner did his successor Henry V., find himself se-
curely seated on the throne, than he entered upon the same
course of opposition to the church, which his father had main-
tained. During the contest, which continued many years,
Henry repeatedly marched into Italy, defeated the forces of the
pope, and at one time made him prisoner. The pope excom-
municated the emperor, and the emperor appointed a new pope,
who revoked the sentence, and confirmed his right of investi-
ture. At length the states, weary of the disorder and confusion
attending the contest, effected a reconciliation. Calixtus II.,
who filled with ability the papal throne, called a council, at
which the ambassadors of the emperor appeared, and in which
a compromise between the emperor and the pope was concluded.
The reign of Henry V. was one of the most bloody which had
desolated Christendom ; marked not only by the war just men-
tioned, but by others with Hungary and Poland.
•5. On the death of Henry, who had no children, the states
elected Lothaire, duke of Saxe Supplembourg. He engaged in
war with the Bohemians from whom he exacted homage. Lo-
1. In what condition did he leave his empire ? — 2. Give some account of
the successors of Alexius ? — 3. Relate the remainder of the history of Henry
IV. — 4:. What course did Henry V. take with regard to the wars of (he in-
vestiture ? How was the dispute settled ?
GUELPHS iND GHIBELLINES.
233
thaire espoused the cause of Innocent II., against a rival pope,
Anacletus, and marched into Italy to establish his right. This
involved him in a war with Roger, duke of Apulia, who es-
poused the cause of Anacletus. The arms of Lothaire prevailed,
Roger was driven from his Italian possessions into Sicily, which
he had recently conquered, and Anacletus was imprisoned.
During this reign, the Justinian code of laws was -adopted in
Germany.
6. The sudden death of Lothaire, without heirs, again changed
the line of succession. The states convened, and elected Con-
rad of Franconia, nephew of Henry V. The duke of Bavaria,
of the family of the Guelphs, aided by the pope, disputed his
title, and embroiled the empire in a civil war. The emperor's
brother, Frederic, duke of Suabia, commanded the imperial
forces, and his soldiers took the name of Ghibellines, from
Ghibel, the place of Frederic's nativity. Hence, while the party
favored by the pope was termed the Guelphs, that of the empe-
ror ions called the Ghibellines, and the wars for supremacy
which had been called the wars of the investitures, were re-
newed under the party watch-words of Guelphs and Ghibellines.
7. No sooner was tranquillity in any measure restored, than
Conrad II!., inspired by the preaching of St. Bernard with the
fanaticism of the times, resolved to take arms in defence of the
Christians in the Holy Land, they being pressed by the Maho-
metan powers, who in 1144 took Edessa. Conrad marched to
Asia, but failing in the object of his enterprise, he returned with
the wreck of his army. Frederic Barbarossa was elected
his successor. He kept up the wars with the popes; subdued
the Poles, awed the Bohemians, and obliged the king of Den-
mark to do him homage. The spirit of liberty had arisen in
the Lombard cities ; several of which, encouraged by the pope,
revolted from the emperor. Frederic marched into Italy, and
took signal vengeance on the revolted cities He razed Milan
to its foundations, strewed salt upon its ruins, and destroyed
several other cities, or deprived them of their privileges. He
marched repeatedly into Italy, but was not successful in his at-
tempts to conquer the Lombards.
8. FRxANCE. — Philip I., who was on the throne of France
at the commencement of this period, was a profligate and licen-
tious prince. So openly dissolute was his character, that in the
council of Clermont, assembled within his own kingdom, Urban
II. did not hesitate to pronounce his excommunication. This en-
Middle Hist.
PERIOD v.
CHAP. II.
1141.
Conrad III.
Guelphs and
Ghibellines.
(It is said
that in these
wars the
castle of
Weinsburg
being taken,
the women
had leave to
quit the pre-
mises with
what they
could carry ;
when, be-
hold, they
came out
with each
her husband
on her
back.)
1147.
Conrad III.
engaged in
the second
crusade.
1152.
Frederic
Barbarossa,
bold and
warlike.
1162.
Milan de-
stroyed.
From
1060.
to
llOS.
Philip I.
5. Give some account of the events which occurred during the reign of
Lothaire. — 6. Who succeeded Lothaire? Who opposed the election of
Conrad ? What is the origin of the terms Guelph and Ghibelline ? Which
of these is the name of a family, and which from the name of a town ? — T.
What incident connected with these wars is related ? What was now the
condition of the Christians in Palestine? Whom do we find preaching a
second crusade ? What was done by Conrad in reference to the Holy Land ?
Give an account of Conrad's successor. Of his operations in Italy. — 8
What was the character of Philip I. ? What was done by pope Urban, and
where ?
30
234 THE SECOND CRUSADE.
Middle Hist, couraged his nobles, who openly aspired to independence; anb
period v. during his weak and inefficient reign, many encroachments were
chap. ii. made on the prerogatives of the crown.
9. Philip was succeeded by his son Louis VI. The energy
and virtue of Louis restored the monarchy. During the prin-
cipal part of his reign, he was occupied in a war with Henry J.
of England, who had acquired Normandy from his brother Ro-
bert, and now withheld it from William, the son of Robert.
Louis maintained his power over the nobles, by showing himself
the protector of the lower orders, and by making freemen of
many of the vassals, and thus composing a third estate, or com-
mons.
10. Louis VII., the Young, his son and successor, was
Louis ' early involved in war with the aspiring nobles. He was suc-
vii. cessful in subduing them, but the destruction of thirteen hun-
cfeeueCd"s dred persons in the town of Vitre, who had taken refuge in a
his fa- churcn to which he ordered fire to be put, pressed heavily on
his conscience. Reasoning on the vain addition to Christianity
. made in the dark ages, he believed that his own deeds could be
carried by the church to the credit side of his Maker's account
These- current; and to balance this sin, he undertook a Second Cru-
crusade. sade. His army fell before the arrows of the Moslems ; and
after a visit to the holy city, productive of no efficient aid to
Eiea- the Christians there, he returned with the wreck of his forces.
heiress On h*8 reaching France, Eleanor, his queen, was divorced on
of an accusation of adultery. She married the duke of Normandy,
neand afterwards Henry II. of England; who, by this marriage,
Poictou, obtained her rich dowry — the fine provinces of Guienne and
vorced. PoictOU.
11. Philip Augustus, succeeded his father in the fifteenth
year of his age. He bore the character of a wily politician, who
knows how to move men, as in a game. He entered into an al-
11SO. liance with Richard, the son of Henry of England, and encour-
Au<nis- a&e^ and aided him in a rebellion against his father. He en-
tus. gaged in the third crusade, with Frederic Barbarossa, and with
Richard, who had succeeded to the throne of England under
the title t)f Richard I. Each of these monarchs were aspirants
Crafty for military fame ; nor is it difficult to believe that they re-
pomic. garded Palestine, less with the reverence of devotion, than as a
(Such was the state of learning in this age, that if a man was condemned
to death for crime, and could prove that he was so learned a clerk as to be
able to read and write, he was set at liberty ; the state not knowing how to
part with persons of such rare acquirements. This privilege of the learned
was called " benefit of clergy.")
8. Did he preserve the royal authority ? — 0. How was the monarchy re-
stored ? How was Louis occupied ? How did he maintain the royal authority
over the nobles? — lO. Who was his successor? In what war was he en-
gaged ? With what success ? What act of cruelty troubled his conscience ?
How did he believe he could expiate this sin ? For this purpose what did he
do? What was his success ? What was done on his return ? Who married
the divorced queen ? What was her dowry ? — 11. What account can you
give of Philip Augustus ?
ORIGIN OF THE PLANTAGENETS.
235
field on which they were to reap the laurels they so ardently Middle Hist
coveted. period v
12. ENGLAND.— William the Conqueror left three sons, chap. n.
William II., who succeeded to the crown of England, Robert, ^~v~^
who inherited Normandy, and Henry. Robert in his zea] for 1006
the deliverance of the holy sepulchre, had, as has been related, Wl^iam
mortgaged his dukedom to his brother, William II., in order to Rufus.
obtain the sum requisite to enter upon that enterprise ; but he
was, notwithstanding, the legal heir. The death of William oc- 11©0.
curred during Robert's absence in the Holy Land, which enabled He™y
Henry, the younger brother, to usurp the sovereignty both in Beau-
England and France. To render his usurpations secure, Henry marries
courted the favor of his subjects. He promised, — though he did m^ll~
not fulfil, — to restore the laws of Edward the Confessor ; and the niece to
more effectually to ingratiate himself with the ancient English, 5Jg"
he married Matilda, called the good queen Maud, a daughter ling,
of Margaret queen of Scotland, and thus a descendant of the
Saxon kings.
13. Robert was already on his return from the Holy Land
when the news of William's death reached him. He hastened
to England to claim his inheritance, but Henry persuaded him
to enter into a treaty, by which he received the dukedom of
Normandy, and a small annual tribute, but left Henry in pos- Robert
session of the crown of England. The brother who outlived "JJJJZ
the other, was to inherit the dominions of the deceased. The by
jealousy and ambition of the brothers, however, would not per-
mit them to remain at peace, and Henry soon possessed himself
by force of Robert's dominions, made his brother prisoner for
life, and inhumanly deprived him of his eyes.
14 Henry's only son, prince William, in whom, as the child
of Maud, was the blood of the Saxon line, was shipwrecked on
his return from Normandy. He might have been saved, but for his
fruitless efforts to preserve his sister, a natural daughter of the king.
One hundred and forty young nobles perished beside; and Henry Henr
never smiled again. He induced a council of the prelates and only son
nobles to take the oath of fealty to his daughter, Maud or Ma- dog^nsat
tilda, whom he married to Geoffrey Plantagenet, the earl sea.
of Anjou. On the birth of an heir, afterward Henry II., the
king procured from the nobles a renewal of the oath, extending
it to her son. After a reign of thirty-five years, disturbed by
wars and disorders, Henry died.
15. Stephen, earl of Boulogne, grandson of the conqueror **?" |
in the maternal line, notwithstanding he had been the first to phen de- 1 t-.
take the oath of fealty to Matilda and her son, now urged his SCfrr0md
claim to the throne. Before Matilda could arrive in England, Adeia
12. What sons did William the Conqueror leave ? Which succeeded
him as king of England ? Which §s duke of Normandy ? For what did
he mortgage his patrimony ? What was done by Henry ? What did he do
to please his English subjects ? — 13. Give the history of duke Robert after
his return from the crusade? — 14. What family affliction had the king ?
How did one family of the kings of England get the name of Plantagenet?
— 15. What king of England was of the house of Blois ?
236
USURPATIONS OF THE CHURCH.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. II.
63
1154.
§
Henry
Kl
II.
Si
Extent
of his
domin-
5
. ions.
B. C.
About
500.
Called Mile-
sians, from
Milesius.
441.
St. Patrick
carries
Christianity
into
Ireland.
11*2.
ireland con-
quered by
Henry II.
Henry
con-
tends
with
E^
the
W
church.
^
w
ts
sT
1158.
k
Thomas
«s
a
s
Becket
at-
tempts
to gain
supre-
macy.
Stephen had been crowned by the archbishop of Canterbury.
The kingdom was immediately divided by the partisans of the
adverse claimants. Civil war, with its accustomed horrors,
raged through the land. The feudal barons built and fortified
castles, and now acting independently of the sovereign authority,
they made their petty wars, as dictated by ambition or revenge.
After many years of alternate success, when the son of Matilda
had arrived at age, the nation, weary of the contest, compelled
the hostile parties to peace. In a council of nobles and pre-
lates, it was determined that Stephen should retain the crown
during his life, and be succeeded by Henry. On the death of
Stephen, Henry was received with acclamations by the people
of England. He was the most powerful prince of his age. Be-
sides the sovereignty of England and Normandy, he inherited
from his father Jlnjou and Maine; and as the dower of Eleanor,
the divorced queen of Louis VII. whom he married, he received
Guienne and Poictou.
16. A part of the inhabitants of Ireland are supposed to be
the descendants of a colony from Spain, led by Milesius. St.
Patrick introduced Christianity into the island, 441. About
this period Ireland was the seat of learning. It was divided into
separate states, each having its own chief or king. Brien Boru
or Boirhume, after reigning thirty years as king of M mister,
gained such popularity for his courtesy, bravery, and many
kingly virtues, that the nobility elected him sovereign of the whole
island. He reigned over it twelve years, and was then killed
in battle with the Danes. They did not, however, conquer
Ireland, which continued to be governed by its own kings, until
it was invaded and conquered by Henry II.
17. The English clergy now arrogantly claimed exemption
from all trials before courts of justice; and atrocious crimes were
committed by them with impunity. Henry desired to curb this
evil, and, in civil affairs, to bring the church into subordination
to the crown; and he elevated to the see of Canterbury, Thomas
a Becket, who, from the intimacy which had existed between
them, and from his habits of luxurious ease, he hoped would
prove subservient to his will. But with his change of office,
Becket changed his manners ; and being now the second person
in the kingdom, he soon aspired to be the first. To this end it
was necessary to impose on the superstition and credulity of
the people, an opinion of his sanctity. He ate bread, drank
water, wore shirts of sackcloth seldom changed, lacerated his
body with whips, and daily washed the feet of thirteen beggars.
15. What caused the civil war? How did the council settle the dispute?
What were the dominions of Henry II. ? — 16. From whom are a part of
the Irish supposed to be descended? What was done by St. Patrick, and
when 1 What was Ireland about this ¥ime ? What hero is celebrated in
Irish annals, and for what? How did Brien Boirhume lose his life?
When and by whom was Ireland subjugated? — IT. What exemption did
the clergy claim ? What was often their conduct ? What did the king de-
sire ? Whom did he put in the first office of the church in England, and
for what reasons ? What did Becket to gain the people's confidence ?
THE CONSTITUTIONS OF CLARENDON. 237
Who could doubt that with such mortifications Becket was a Middle Hist.
CHAP
saint ? This character established, he openly opposed the au- period v
thority of the king.
18. Henry summoned a council at Clarendon., in which laws
were passed declaring that priests should he amenable to the
civil tribunals, without appeal to the pope, and that no edict of
the pope shall be binding in England without the sanction of
the king. Becket resisted these laws, and was arrested. Henry
called him to account for the rents and profits he had received
while he was chancellor. Becket appealed to Rome, and ob- ghalibe
tained the support of pope Alexander J J I. The king, however, tried by
obliged him to flee from England, and he was for a time sup- bunai""
ported by the king of France. Henry, further to resist the
usurpations of the church, suspended the payment of certain
church revenues, and concluded an alliance with Frederic Bar-
barossa, who was at war with the pope.
19. At length, each party afraid of the other, came to condi-
tions of peace; and, waiving controverted points, Becket was re-
stored to his archbishoprick. He came to England like a con-
queror, and assumed a splendor little less than regal. He
notified three of the principal prelates that the pope had excom-
municated them, for certain acts of obedience to the king.
When the news of this arrogance was brought to Henry, who
was in Normandy, he exclaimed, " Will my servants still leave
me exposed to the insolence of this ungrateful and imperious UTO.
priest ?" Four knights of rank, William de Tracy, Hugh de ^ssi-
Morville, Richard Britts, and Reginald Fitz Urse, on hearing nated.
this, repaired to Canterbury, and assassinated Becket in his
church, during the evening service. The news of this sacrilege
filled the king with consternation. He hastened to make his
peace with Rome, and the death of Becket procured for the (Henry
church concessions which his life could not. Henry ob- n^T^0.
tained absolution from pope Gregory VIII., and made a pilgrim- tect
age to the shrine of the murdered prelate, who was canonized ; VouT
and so great was the fame of the martyr, especially for healing sentle-
diseases, that 100,000 pilgrimages to his tomb, are computed to
have been made in one year !
20. The latter portion of Henry's life was embittered by do- 1173.
mestic dissensions. The king of France incited his sons to take Henry's
arms against him. Henry, the eldest, claimed Normandy, and his bSVrTd"
father's refusal was the signal for his rebellion. Richard and carry
Geoffrey united with their brother, notwithstanding their father into
had been liberal to them ; and William, the king of Scotland, France-
IT. What afterwards in respect to the king's authority? — 18. What
council did Henry call ? What laws did they pass ? Who encouraged
Becket in his course ? Where did he go ? What other measures did Henry
take against the church? — 19. Each party fearing the other, what was
done ? What was Becket's course of conduct ? What unguarded expres-
sion was used by the king ? What was the consequence ? What did the
king on learning Becket's death ? — 20. What was Henry's situation in re-
gard to domestic peace ?
238 PREPARATIONS FOR THE THIRD CRUSADE.
Middle mst. joined the confederacy. The English dominions in France
period v. were for two years the theatre of war between the contending
chap. tit. parties. A pacification was at length effected, and the young
v-#-v~^/ princes pardoned. Notwithstanding this, Richard, now his
11S3. eldest son, rebelled, and united with Philip Augustus of France.
^""^ Amid these troubles, and sorely disappointed at finding himself
dies, deserted by his youngest and favorite son, John, Henry was
taken ill, and died. This king, in most respects of a happy
character, was yet soured by misfortunes, brought upon him in
some measure by his vices ; and he expired with a curse against
his disobedient children *
"3 US9. 21. Richard I. succeeded to the throne of England. His
Richard first acts were preparatory to the famous crusade led by him-
CLionde self ana" Philip Augustus. On the day of his coronation, a
most horrible slaughter -of the Jews took place, as a sacrifice
Perse- acceptable to God. Their residence in the different kingdoms
of ?2e °^ Europe could never be considered safe, as they were without
Jews the protection of the laws ; and at times multitudes of them fell
victims to a fanatical and infuriated populace.
CHAPTER III.
The Turks and Crusaders. — Eastern Empire.
1. When Jerusalem was taken by the Christians of the first
Nou- crusade, consternation was spread through the empire of the
thedmost Moslems. The Seljoukians had followed the usual course of
power- the Asiatic dynasties, and the last of the race sunk into imbe-
Atta- cility and vice. The name of the sovereign of Persia was
Jek hardly known to the Christians ; but the Attabeks became for-
"eastf midable. This was a Turkish name given to the petty princes,
1145. who in the decline of the dynasty of Seljouk, obtained the
* When a man marries a bad woman from ambition, and then treats her
ill, his family will naturally be the seat of disorders. Henry is that sovereign
whose queen, Eleanor, is said to have poisoned his favorite, fair Rosamond.
But this story is fabulous, as Rosamond Clifford, it appears, retired to a
monastery, and there died. To Henry's want of conjugal fidelity and law-
less loves, may be traced many of his troubles. There is too much reason
to believe that he cherished a criminal passion for the young Adelais, the
betrothed wife of his son Richard, and sister to Philip, king of France, who
was sent in her childhood to be educated in England. When she was de-
manded by Richard, his father would not relinquish her; and on Henry's
death, Richard refused to marry her. This caused the enmity of Richard
to his father, and the hatred of Philip to Richard.
20. Give an account of Henry's last days.— 21. Who succeeded him?
What happened on the day of his coronation ? What was the condition of
the Jews ?
Chap. III.— 1. What was the condition of the Seljoukian Turks ? Give
an account of the Attabeks.
SALADIN RECOVERS JERUSALEM.
239
government of the different provinces, and undertook the de-
fence of the Mahometan faith. One of these, Noureddin, son
of Zengi, of Mosul, gradually united the Mahometan powers,
and spread his reign from the Tigris to the Nile. He was so
good and just a sovereign, that after his death, the oppressed
poor cried in the streets, Noureddin! Noureddin! where art
thou !
2. The Fatimite caliphs of Egypt were at this time reduced
to the most distressed and degraded state. Their prime minis-
ters, called viziers or sultans, had usurped the supreme autho-
rity, and Cairo was distracted by hostile factions. The aid of
Noureddin was implored by the caliph A zidaddin; and Shirkoh,
a valiant commander of Kurdistan, was dispatched to his assist-
ance. Shirkoh was accompanied in his Egyptian expedition,
by his nephew Saladin, who, on the death of his uncle, was
promoted to the office of vizier. Saladin at length threw off
his allegiance, not only to the caliph of Egypt, but to Al
Malel, the successor of Noureddin. He made himself master
of Egypt, invaded and conquered Aleppo, Damascus, and
Diarbekir ; Arabia submitted to his arms, and the inhabitants
of Tripoli and Tunis acknowledged his authority.
3. Saladin proceeded to wrest the kingdom of Jerusalem
from the Christians. This kingdom, now under Guy of Lu-
signan, was reduced to a state of extreme weakness. A battle
was fought at Tiberias, in which Saladin was victorious. This
battle broke the Christian power in Palestine ; and at length
Jerusalem itself, in the conquest and defence of which so much
blood had been shed, was recovered by the Turks. The con-
duct of Saladin in the surrender of Jerusalem was mild and
magnanimous ; he accepted a ransom for the richer prisoners,
and permitted the poor to go free. He still extended his con-
quests, mid, with the exception of Tyre, he made himself master
of the whole of Palestine.
4. THE THIRD CRUSADE.— The news of the conquest
of Jerusalem filled Europe with dismay. Pope Gregory VIII.
sought at once to heal the dissensions of the Christian monarchs,
and induce them again to take up arms in defence of the Holy
Land. The enmity of France and England presenting an ob-
stacle to the absence of either monarch from his kingdom,
Richard I., and Philip Augustus solemnly agreed to lay aside
their animosities, and together embark in the holy war. The
first monarch to go forward, in the third crusade, was Frederic
Rarbarossa. In his march through the Greek empire, he was
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
chap. in.
1
3
B
b
S
The
kingly
Saladin.
118*.
TIBE-
RIAS.
Saladin
defeats
the
Chris-
tians.
Jerusa-
lem
taken.
The third
crusade un-
dertaken by
Richard I.
Philip Au-
gustus and
F. Barba-
rossa.
(Gregory
VIII. en-
joins a five
years fast,
i. e., from
meat on
Wednes-
days and
Fridays.)
1. Who was now the most powerful sovereign in the east ? What was
the extent of his dominions ? What his character ?— 2. What was the con-
dition of the Fatimate caliphs of Egypt ? To whom did the caliph apply
for aid ? Who was sent ? Give an account of Saladin. Of what countries
did he make himself master? — 3. What was the condition of the kingdom
of Jerusalem? Describe the progress of Saladin in the Holy Land? — 4.
What was the consequence of Saladin's taking Jerusalem ? What agreement
was made between Richard and Philip Augustus ? Relate the part taken
in the third crusade by Frederic Barbarossa.
240
RICHARD THE LION-HEARTED.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. 111.
1189.
Siege of
Acre, seve-
ral battles
fought un-
der its
walls.
1192.
JiZOTUS.
Richard de-
feats Sala-
din. . They
make a
truce-
Richard
Cosur-de-
lion, for
valor the
knight of
knights.
subjected to all the annoyances which had destroyed the former
expeditions. The resolute Frederic, however, crossed the Bos-
phorus, defeated the Moslems, took the city of Iconium, and
spread the fame of his military skill, and the terror of his arms,
even to the throne of Saladin. But he died by bathing in the
Cydnus. His troops proceeded to Antioch, to await there the
arrival of the other crusaders.
5. Philip Augustus and Richard wisely resolved to avoid the
evils incident to a passage through the Greek empire. They
accordingly embarked, Philip at Genoa, and Richard at Mar-
seilles, and met again at Messina, in Sicily. During their stay
here, animosities arose between them, which threatened the de-
struction of the enterprise. Philip, however, advanced to Pa-
lestine ; and, aided by the remainder of Barbarossa's army, he
commenced the siege of Acre. Richard was detained at Cyprus.
A terrible storm had dispersed his fleet, and stranded, on that
island, vessels in which were embarked Richard's sister Eleanor,
and the lady Berengaria, of Navarre, to whom he was engaged
in marriage. The king of Cyprus treated the princesses and
crews with rigour. Richard, in revenge, landed his army, fought
two battles, took the king, and subjugated the island; — and
having married his betrothed, he joined the crusaders before
Acre.
6. Philip Augustus, displeased with the delay of Richard,
and also with his marriage, by which his sister Adelais
was slighted, returned to France; leaving, however, 10,000 sol-
diers under the command of the duke of Burgundy. Near
Azotns, Richard, by his personal prowess, as the army was
nearly defeated, obtained a victory over Saladin and the Maho-
metans. He took Cesarea and Jaffa, and advanced within view
of Jerusalem ; but he was discouraged by the dissensions of
the camp, his wasting numbers, and diminished resources. He
therefore made with Saladin a truce for three years, on condi-
tion that Acre, Jaffa, and the cities conquered by the crusaders,
should remain in their possession, and that the Christians should
have free access to the Holy City
7. Had Richard been as discreet and politic as he was brave,
he might have made himself master of the east. Perhaps no
warrior of history ever dealt such blows as Richard the lion-
hearted. Of almost giant size and strength, cased in the heavy
armor of the times, his might in the battle field made him a
host in himself. Learning one day that his garrison at Jaffa
was in jeapordy, Richard hasted with a small body of troops
to their relief, rushed with his men into the thickest ranks of
the enemy, vanquished every thing that dared oppose him, and
% When and where did he die ? What became of his army ?— 5. Re-
late the movements of Richard and Philip Augustus. What important island
was taken? — 6. What was done by Philip Augustus? What battle was
fought ? By whom was it fought ? What was its result ? Did the victor
judge it prudent to follow up his success, or did he negociate? — T. What
were some of Richards exploits ?
DEATH OF SALADIN".
241
rescued two noble knights who had been taken by the Saracens.
Once he was surrounded by a band of soldiers, and single
handed he cut his way through them. Such terror and admira-
tion seized his enemies, that fifty years afterwards his name was
used in the east to frighten wayward children.
8. It is said that, on one occasion, when Saladin perceived
the flight of his men, he inquired the cause; and being told that
the English king had himself driven them from the city, asked,
"Which is her" He was pointed to a little hillock, where
Richard with his men had halted. " What," said Saladin, "on
foot among his servants ? This is not as it should be ;" and
immediately he sent him a horse. After the departure of Richard,
and the death of Saladin, which occurred a year afterwards,
the Christians of Palestine enjoyed a season of repose. Saladin
was the wisest and most upright prince that ever filled a Ma-
hometan throne. When he found himself near death, impressed
with the worthlessness of earthly grandeur, he ordered the
standard which had been borne in his victorious marches, to be
removed, and a shroud to be substituted in its place. This he
commanded to be carried through the streets, the criers pro-
claiming " Behold what Saladin the mighty conqueror carries
with him of all his vast dominions." These dominions were
divided at his death.
9. EASTERN EMPIRE— The Byzantine empire, already
stripped of its Asiatic provinces, was now further dismembered.
Bulgaria, which had for almost two centuries acknowledged
its supremacy, revolted and became independent. Cyprus had
been usurped by a prince of the Comnenian family. Richard
of England conquered him, and bestowed the island upon Guy
of Lusignan, the former king of Jerusalem.
10. The throne of Isaac Angelus, monarch of Constanti-
nople, was usurped by his brother Alexius Angelus, and the
dethroned monarch deprived of his sight, and imprisoned.
Young Alexius, the son of Isaac, escaped, implored the protec-
tion of pope Innocent III., and sought to engage the nations of
the west to employ their arms in the restoration of his father.
At this time many of the nobles of Germany and France, the
flower of western chivalry, had assembled with their vassals at
Venice, with the design of procuring conveyance to Palestine
for a fourth crusade. To Venice Alexius proceeded, and be-
sought, for his father, the aid of the gallant warriors. His im-
portunity was seconded by Dandolo, the aged and venerable
doge of Venice. A large body of the pilgrims, whose leader
was Baldwin, count of Flanders, embarked with the Venetians
for Constantinople.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. III.
Character
of Saladin.
His death.
119a
1195.1
Alexius
Ange-
lus, his
cruelty
to his
brother.
1202
Dando-
lo, doge
or duke
of Ve-
His ex-
pedi-
tion.
8. What instance of courtesy is related of Saladin ? What was the cha-
racter of Saladin ? — 9. What provinces were taken from the Greek em-
pire ? — 10. What was the conduct of Alexius Angelus ? Who was young
Alexius ? What crusade was about to be undertaken ? Where did young
Alexius apply for aid, and to whom ? By whom was he favored ? Who
embarked for Constantinople?
31
242
THE LATIN EMPIRE OF CONSTANTINOPLE.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. III.
1204.
Latins take
Constanti-
nople.
The Greeks
refuse to
surrender
the indepen-
dence of the
church.
Alexius
Mazoufie.
'1204
Bald-
win I.
Henry.
Peter.
Robert.
John.
Bald-
win II.
Empire
ends
1261.
11. The crusaders destroyed the Grecian fleet, and rode tri-
umphant in the harbor. The city, containing above four hun-
dred thousand inhabitants, was besieged by twenty thousand
Latin pilgrims. Alexius Angelus, after one attempt at a sally,
fled in secresy from the city, while the nobles released Isaac
from prison, placed him upon the throne, and opened the gates
of the city to the besiegers. The conditions of the succor
promised by the young Alexius were, the submission of the
eastern empire to the pope, aid in the holy war, and a contribu-
tion of two hundred thousand marks to his deliverers. The
Greeks were displeased with these conditions, and irritated at
the prospect of surrendering the independence of their church.
The engagements of Alexius were not fulfilled, and the Latins
became dissatisfied and insolent in their conduct. The indig-
nant Greeks petitioned the senate to give them a more worthy
emperor, and offered the imperial purple in succession to all
the senators.
12. Alexius Ducas, surnamed Mazoufle, encouraged the
revolt, placed himself at its head, and treacherously obtaining
possession of the person of Alexius, he murdered him, and
assumed the sovereignty. The aged emperor died of grief and
fear. Mazoufle at first had possession of Constantinople, and
endeavored to defend it against the Latins, whose demands he
refused to satisfy. They besieged and again took the city.
Plunder followed the conquest, and the most precious monu-
ments of ancient art were destroyed by the hands, not of bar-
barians, but of the Latin soldiery.
13. The victorious crusaders elected as emperor, their prin-
cipal leader, Baldwin, count of Flanders ; and to another of
their chiefs, the Marquis of Montserrat, was given the island of
Crete and Asiatic Greece. Baldwin was soon compelled to de-
fend the empire he had conquered. The Greeks of Thrace
having revolted, he marched against them ; but was defeated and
taken captive. Under his successors, the Latin kingdom lan-
guished, until in 1261, less than fifty years after its conquest, it
was recovered by the Greeks under Michael Pal^eologus, a
nobleman of exalted worth, who became emperor. Another
nobleman, Theodore Lascaris, founded a kingdom of which
Nice was the seat.
14. MOGULS. — Termugin, known as Jenghiz Khan, was
the son of a barbarian, who reigned over a few hordes of Tar-
11. How many inhabitants had Constantinople? By whom was it in-
vested ? Who opened the gates to the besiegers ? What engagements had
Alexius made to the Latins as the condition of their succor ? Were these
fulfilled on the part of the Greeks? What was done in relation to a suc-
cessor to the crown? — 12. Who became emperor, and what was his con-
duct,— especially towards Isaac and Alexius Angelus ? What was now
done by the Latins ? — 13. Whom did the Latins make emperor of Con-
stantinople ? What was given as a kingdom to the Marquis of Montserrat ?
How many Latin emperors were there, and how long did the Latin empire
continue ? By whom was it recovered for the Greeks ? By whom was the
kingdom of Nice founded ?
GREAT EMPIRE OF THE MOGULS.
243
tars, on the banks of the Selinga, numbering in all, thirty or
forty thousand families. The death of his father, while he was
yet a child, induced the revolt of his subjects, and at the age of
thirteen, the courageous chief fought a battle with the rebels.
He was compelled to flee, but his spirit and valor acquired him
renown. By degrees he gained control, until he was formally
proclaimed Khan of the Moguls and Tartars. He afterward
took the title of Jen-ghiz Khan, which signifies, the " Most
Great Khan of Khans."
15. He led vast multitudes against the Chinese, — passed the
great wall, and stormed and destroyed a multitude of cities.
His path was the track of desolation. His retreat from China
was purchased by a tribute, A second expedition drove the
emperor of China to his southern provinces, while the northern
were added to the empire of Jenghiz. Passing towards the do-
minions of the Mahometan sultan, 700,000 Moguls and Tartars
followed his standard, while their antagonists, the Mahometans,
vainly opposed him with 400,000. City after city, from the
Caspian to the Indus, was besieged and taken ; — nations and
kingdoms were so wasted and depopulated, that five centuries
were not sufficient to repair the ravages of four years. While
Jenghiz himself engaged in this expedition, one of his generals
had spread the terror of his arms from the western provinces of
Persia to the banks of the Volga, and the farther snores of the
Caspian. Jenghiz Khan was the most cruel and bloody of all
tyrants. He made war to exterminate nations, that he might
plant the countries with his own people. Once he had 100,000
captives executed on the same day. It is computed that he
caused the destruction of 14,470,000 of the human race.
16. On the death of Jenghiz his vast empire was divided
among his four sons. They extended his conquests, — nearly
completed the reduction of all Asia, and conquered a consider-
able portion of Europe. His grandson, Kouli (or Kublai)
Khan, achieved the entire conquest of China, the northern pro-
vinces of which had submitted to Jenghiz, and the remains of
the former family of emperors was exterminated. He built Pekin
and made it his capital. Bengal and Thibet also yielded him
tribute and obedience. The arms of the Moguls were, under
another of the grandsons of Jenghiz, again carried into Persia,
the empire of the caliphs was subverted, and the conquests of the
Moguls extended to Aleppo and Damascus. The Mamelukes
of Egypt opposed their progress, but the kingdoms of Anatolia
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. III.
The greatest
conqueror
and mur-
derer the
world ever
saw.
Conquests
of Jenghiz
Khan.
1241.
Conquests
of Jenghiz's
successors.
Kouli Khan
establishes
a new dy-
nasty in
China.
14. You have now reached the history of the greatest of all conquerors
and murderers, — give an account of his parentage and early years. What
do you learn of his titles ? — 15. What of his progress in China? What army
did he gather in passing through the country of the Moguls and Tartars ?
What army did the Mahometans attempt to oppose to him ? Describe from
the map the countries conquered by Jenghiz Khan ? What was his charac-
ter ? How many human victims are computed to have been sacrificed to his
ambition and cruelty ?— -16. How was the vast empire of Jenghiz divided ?
What conquests were made by his grandson Kouli or Kublai ? What under
another of his grandsons ?
244
Middle Hist.
The great
empire of
the Moguls
falls into
fragments.
1090.
The " Old
Man of the
Moun-
tains," esta-
blishes the
" Assas-
sins."
The Druses.
THE OLD MAN OF THE MOUNTAINS.
and Armenia submitted to their sway. They conquered Russia,
invaded Poland, and spread devastation through Hungary. Of
one of the grandsons of Jenghiz it is said, that in the space of
less than six years, he extended his conquests over a line of
ninety degrees of longitude.
17. The extensive conquests of the Moguls were not con-
ducted by the successors of Jenghiz in person, but committed
to their lieutenants. By degrees, these lieutenants threw off
their allegiance to the great Khan, and acquired the supreme
control in their respective provinces. After a time they re-
nounced idolatry, and all connection with the Mogul idolaters
of China, and embraced Mahometanism. Holagou Khan, a
descendant of Jenghiz, extirpated the terrible banditti known by
the name of the " Society of Assassins," which had continued
under a succession of chiefs 172 years, though changing the
seat of power. It was founded 1090, by Hassan Sebek, called
on account of his residence among the mountains south of the
Caspian, " the Old Man of the Mountains." The same title
descended to his successors. They pretended to divine inspira-
tion, and their maxim was, " to the faithful nothing is forbid-
den." In Syria they had at one period, 60,000 men. Their
daggers were lurking in the cities of the east and of the west —
the terror of all. The Druses were a sect formed from the As-
sassins, and inhabiting the same region. They adopted faith in
Hakem, a counterfeit Mahomet; who, when told of his licen-
tiousness and crimes, said, " their history constituted a sublime
allegory for the edifying of the faithful !" So long as mankind
love imposition, there will be impostors.
CHAPTER IV
Germany.
1. Henry VI. succeeded his father Frederic Barbarossa. The
1190. death of William, king of Sicily, gave him a claim upon that
crown, in right of his empress Constantia, the sister of the de-
ceased. His right was disputed, and again the faithful soldiers
Henry of Germany were dragged from their homes to Italy, that their
sovereign, who ought to have applied himself in the fear of the
Lord to their public affairs, might possess a foreign dominion.
16. Did they conquer Egypt? What countries of Europe were con-
quered by the Moguls? — IT. How did the immense empire of the Mo-
guls pass from the successors of Jenghiz ? What religion did these lieuten-
ants embrace ? What was done by Holagou Khan ? Give an account of
the Assassins. Of the Druses.
Chap. IV. — 1. Who succeeded Frederic Barbarossa? How did he de-
rive a claim upon Sicily ? What did he to establish his claim ?
RODOLPH OF HAPSBURG. 245
Henry made himself master of nearly all Campania, Calabria, Middle Hist.
and Apulia ; and at length achieved in another expedition, the period v.
conquest of the kingdoms of Sicily and JWiples. His efforts to chap. iv.
render the imperial dignity hereditary, had so far succeeded, as v<-*r"'v'^w
to procure a decree, by which his son, Frederic J I. was, on
his death, made king of the Romans, and heir to the empire. 3*>1?-
2. Frederic being a minor, his uncle, Philip, duke of Swabia, (Fifth
became regent. The sultan of Egypt had reduced the Chris- 2due"
tians of the east to great distress, and their only hope was in by An-
the aid of their brethren of the west. To engage Frederic in dnSIi-f
their cause, the pope gave him in marriage Yolanda, the daugh- gary.)
ter of John of Brienne, titular king of Jerusalem, with that king- 1228.
dom as her dower. Still Frederic manifested a reluctance to Y™CA\{.
depart, until the patience of the pope was exhausted, and he con-
pronounced his excommunication. The emperor now renewed ftf
the war of the Guelphs and Ghibellines. He invaded Italy, sixth-
compelled the pope to flee from Rome, and ravaged his pos-
sessions. Frederic at length proceeded to perform his vow ; but fig^,w
departed for the holy land without the sentence of excommuni- in Pa-
cation having been revoked. His crusade was more successful ^ib\t
than that of either of the preceding monarchs. The sultan of 01 the
Egypt ceded to him Jerusalem, with several other cities. A truce ceeding
often vears was concluded. Gregory IX. would not allow any c™~ f
, ." . . . . &t^ J , . i . r. T , J sades,of
ecclesiastics to assist m crowning r redenc king of Jerusalem, which
there
were
ric
main-
tains
but he took the crown from the altar, and with his own hands
placed it on his head. four.)
3. The pope instigated his subjects in Italy to revolt, and for
several years, Germany and Italy were deluged with blood. A
succession of popes declared Frederic excommunicated and de- Frede-
throned, and new emperors elected. Still he maintained his
cause, until death relieved the popes from a fearless and formid-
able enemy. But the troubles of the empire increased. Tumult agahist
and confusion prevailed. All classes were in arms ; several em- the
perors were elected, but none properly acknowledged, until 125^
Rodolph of Hapsburgh, a prince of the ancient family of the *s>>^5
Guelphs, and possessing considerable territories in Switzerland, r0-
was raised to the throne. From him sprang the House of do,Pn-
Austria.
4. While Germany was in this state of disorder, Denmark, *nM*
Holland, and Hungary threw off their allegiance to the empire. Hanse-
A confederation of several cities, the principal of which were atic
JLubec, Cologne, Brunswick, and Dantzic, was formed about
1. What countries did he conquer? Who succeeded him? — 2. What
was now the condition of the Christians in the Holy Land ? What did the
pope to induce Frederic to undertake a crusade ? Did he fulfil his promise
at once? What did Frederic in consequence of the pope's excommunica-
tion? Relate the circumstances of Frederic's crusade. Which crusade
was this ? Was there fighting in the Holy Land during this or any future
crusade? What was done at the coronation of Frederic in Jerusalem ? How
many crusades were there? — 3. What occurred afterwards during this em-
peror's reign ? What after his decease ? Who was elected to succeed him ?
— 4. What states during the interregnum became independent ?
►8
o
3
246
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IV.
1291
Adolphus of
Nassau.
130S.
Albert seeks
to subjugate
wholly the
Swiss.
William
Tell's intre-
pidity.
(There is
a difference
among his-
torians con-
cerning this
story of
Tell; but
it seems
highly im-
probable
that it
should so
long have
been be-
lieved un-
less it were
true.)
General re-
volt in
Switzer-
land.
1315.
MORGAR-
TEN-
The Swiss
show the
superiority
of infantry.
THE HERO OF SWITZERLAND.
this period in the west of Germany. These cities were situated
on, and near the Elbe. They were called the Hanse towns, and
the confederation the Hanse atic League. Rodolph took arms
against Ottocarus, king of Bohemia, who had seized the duchy
of Austria; defeated and slew him in battle. Austria was
given to Albert, the eldest son of Rodolph. The reign of
Rodolph was prosperous and popular. The electors at his
death, rejecting Albert, chose Adolphus of Nassau; but he was
eventually deposed, when Albert obtained the sovereignty.
5. The Swiss Cantons of Uri, Schwitz and Under wald, al-
though free and independent in their internal government, had
been obliged to acknowledge the supremacy of the empire, under
the administration of Rodolph, who, however, treated them
with great lenity. Albert, indignant at the spirit of freedom
which they had occasionally expressed, sent bailiffs, with orders
to tame these mountaineers, and bring them to subjection.
Gesler, one of these officers, had erected m the market place,
a pole on which he placed his hat, commanding the passers by
to pay it obeisance. William Tell refused to yield the ho-
mage. He was sentenced to death, but his sentence was ex-
changed into a command to shoot an apple from the head of his
son ; and if his arrow failed, both he and his son were to be
executed. Tell hit the apple ; — but Gesler discovered another
arrow in his possession, and inquired for what purpose he de-
signed it. " For thee," replied Tell. He was imprisoned, and
put on board a boat to be conveyed across the lake of Lucerne.
A storm arose, and Tell was unbound, that his known skill
might save the perishing bark. He guided her course to a shore,
where, springing upon a rock, he killed Gesler with an arrow
as he landed, and then escaped to his friends, in the canton of
Schwitz, who were already banded in the cause of their coun-
try's liberties.
6. Melchthal, Stauffacher, and Furst, three patriot
leaders, had in secret matured their plans ; and the affair of Tell
proving the signal of revolt, the whole country rose in arms.
The Austrian officers, surprised, and unable to resist, were made
prisoners, and conducted to the frontiers, where they were with-
out bloodshed liberated, on their swearing never again to serve
against the Swiss. After the death of Albert, Germany was
again distracted by two emperors being elected at the same time,
and the people arranged by their leaders on opposite sides, were
wasting and destroying their common country and themselves.
During this period, one of their emperors, Leopold, undertook
4. What confederacy arose, and of what cities was it composed? How
does Albert become sovereign of Austria? What account can you give
of his being elected emperor? — '5. What three of the Swiss cantons are
here mentioned ? What account can you give of them ? What orders did
Albert give his officers ? Relate the story of William Tell. — 6. Who
were the three patriot leaders leagued with Tell? What was done by them
and the Swiss generally ? What occurred after the death of Albert in rela-
tion to the succession ? What number and kind of force went against the
Swiss ? With what did the Swiss defeat them, and where ?
THE POPES AND EMPERORS STILL CONTEND. 247
to reduce the Swiss, and went against them with 21,000 cavalry. Middle Hist.
But the brave mountaineers, with 1,300 infantry, defeated them period v.
at Morgarten ; and established the independence of Switzerland, chap. iv.
Other cantons soon joined them, and in 1353, there were thirteen. v-«'~v^,w
7. Henry, count of Luxembourg, was elevated by the
electors to the throne. His short reign is but a repetition of 1318.
that of his predecessors — intrigues at home, — contests with the Henry vii.,
popes, — wars in Italy. During one of these he died suddenly, Jh^pope.
at Benevento. After an interregnum of fourteen months, two
emperors were elected in Germany, who, by their conflicting «*>*>«>
claims, brought again the curse of civil war. Louis of Bava- Louis of Ba-
ria being at length elected, carried his arms into Italy. Pope varia-
John XXII., who resided at Avignon, excited the German princes
to revolt. On the return of trie emperor to quell the domestic
disturbances, the pontiff recovered his power at Rome, and the The same
friends of the emperor were expelled from the city. Finding overlain,
all reconciliation with the Roman see impossible, Louis sum- The empe-
moned a diet, which decreed that the pope had no superiority pope con-
over the German emperor; nor was his approval essential in tend for su-
the imperial elections, the power of choosing the emperor being
vested in the college of electors alone. For a while the empire
remained at peace, but the intrigues of the pontiffs again pro-
duced open hostilities to Louis ; and Clement VI., who had iV!r0fS
succeeded to the papal chair, procured the election of Charles Luxem-
of Luxembourg, son and heir of the king of Bohemia. Louis
soon died, and Charles becoming emperor, was a mere tool for
the reigning popes.
8. It was, however, during this reign, that the constitution 1855.
called the " Golden Bull" was established. By this the number %^a
and duties of the electors were settled, and the succession of each consti-
electorate acknowledged as belonging to the oldest son. This forthe
famous instrument shows the style and spirit of the times. It ^0en™^"
begins with an apostrophe to Satan, Anger, Pride, and Luxury; racy, (so
and it sets forth the necessity that the number of electors should ^.JJ^f
be seven, in order to oppose the seven mortal sins ! On the the
death of Charles, his son Wince slaus succeeded to the impe- pa0pner
rial throne, as well as to the crown of Bohemia. The shameful which it
levity and utter profligacy of this prince disqualified him forthe writ-
care of his empire ; and under his administration, its affairs, both ten,)
in Germany and Italy, went to ruin. The electors held a diet
and deposed him. Winceslaus took their treatment, however, 13^8.
in good part, and returned to his hereditary dominions ; only winces-
desiring the cities to send him as a parting present, some butts
of their best wine!
9. Frederic, duke of Brunswick, was next chosen, who was
shortly after murdered ; and subsequently, Rupert, count pala-
tine of the Rhine, was elected to fill the vacant throne. At this
T. What occurred during the reign of Henry of Luxembourg ? What
during that of Louis of Bavaria? — 8. What was the golden bull? What
was settled bv it? Give some account of the successor of Charles TV. —
!>. Who succeeded Winceslaus?
248
DAWN OF THE REFORMATION.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IV.
Sigismund.
1415.
Council of
Constance.
John Huss
burnt.
1416.
Jerome of
Prague.
1438.
Albert II.
succeeds
Sigismund.
1440.
Frederic III.
1453.
Turks mas-
ters of Con-
stantinople.
1493-
Maximilian
1491.
Philip II.,
Augustus.
perioJ may be dated the commencement in Germany of a schism
in the church, which led the way to " the Reformation." John
Huss, of Prague, a follower of certain opinions which Wick-
liffe had taught in England, began to teach in Bohemia. The
emperor Rupert vainly sought to heal the dissensions which
arose in the church, but died without effecting his object. He
was succeeded in the imperial government by Sigismund, king
of Hungary, brother to the deposed Winceslaus. The disorders
of the church claimed his first attention. A general council
was, with the approbation of the pope, convened at Constance.
Huss was cited to appear, charged with heresy, condemned, and
with a mitre of paper placed upon his head, on which were
painted three devils, he was committed to the flames, and died
maintaining his faith. The same opinions were professed, and
taught by the learned Jerome of Prague, the companion of
Huss ; and he suffered the same fate. But these executions served
to increase the number of the Hussites; and in Bohemia they
maintained a long war with the imperial power. A pacification
was at length effected, and they were granted the privileges
which they claimed.
10. Albert, duke of Austria, son-in-law of Sigismund, suc-
ceeded him in the kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia, and was
subsequently raised to the imperial throne. His short reign
was alarmed by the appearance of the Turks in Bulgaria. His
sudden and early death prevented his meeting them in arms.
He was succeeded on the thrones of Hungary and Bohemia, by
his son Ladislaus, then a minor, and the empire was conferred
on his cousin, Frederic of Austria. This prince wandered,
like his predecessors, after the phantom of power which their
Italian titles conferred, and was crowned at Rome. Europe
was now alarmed at the progress of the Turks, who made, them-
selves masters of Constantinople. Assemblies were summoned
for the purpose of arming Christendom against them, but nothing
effectual was done. John Hunniades, general of the Hunga-
rians, compelled them to raise the siege of Belgrade, which they
had invested. Frederic III. was succeeded by his son, Maxi-
milian, arch-duke of Austria. He married Mary, only child
of Charles the Bold, and heiress of Burgundy and Flanders,
and thus obtained possession of these extensive domains, which
were at this period rich and commercial.
11. FRANCE. — Philip Augustus, on going to the crusade,
had pledged himself by oath not to encroach upon the do-
minions of Richard ; but the pope giving him a dispensation,
9. Who subsequently ? What persons were at this period tried and con-
demned ? At what council were they condemned, and for what? What
effect had their death upon the belief of the people ? What was done, and
what obtained by the Hussites? — 10. In whose reign did the Turks ap-
pear ? In whose reign did they conquer Constantinople ? What hero met
them in Hungary ? Pay particular attention to the successor of Frederic
III. Who was he ? By what marriage connexion did he gain large pos-
sessions? In what condition was Burgundy and Flanders? — 11. How did
Philip Augustus conduct in reference to Richard of England ?
last.
THE TIME OF INNOCENT III. 249
Philip held himself free to follow out his ambitious inclinations, jggfe HisL
He excited Richard's younger brother John to rebel against him, period v.
and practised to have Richard himself detained prisoner in
Germany : but the lion-hearted warrior escaped, and Philip
wrote to John, " Beware ; the devil is unchained." On Richard's
return to his dominions, a war ensued between the rivals, but it
was characterized by no remarkable event, and waged with
little vigor. On the accession of John to the crown of Eng-
land, Philip summoned him as his vassal of Normandy, to ap-
pear before him and answer for the murder of his nephew,
Arthur. John neglecting to appear, his continental dominions Philip
were declared forfeit, and annexed to the French crown. The ^"so-
pope, in a quarrel with John, gave to Philip the crown of Eng- vereign
land ; and he made extensive preparations for a war in vindica- charie-
tion of the claim thus obtained. Meanwhile the pontiff con- magne.
eluded a peace with England, and revoked the gift. Philip, as
a sovereign of the French, was one of their best. He not only
enlarged his domains, but he consolidated his power, and gained
an ascendancy over the nobles favorable to the interests of -j^^S
the people, constituting a royal court, to which they could ap- ij0UiS
peal from the decisions of the baronial courts. He also estab- ^JH-
lished a royal military force, paid directly from his own coffers, against
12. The short reign of Louis VIII. is memorable for nothing ^^J"
rfave finishing a cruel war undertaken by his father, Philip Au- ses.
gustus, against the Waldenses and Albigenses* religious orders
in the south of France. Pope Innocent III. denounced them as 1226
heretics, and commanded the chivalry to destroy them. The L^\g
famous Simon be Montfort commanded against them, and ix.
200,000 men were employed in extirpating a million of harm- makees
less people. Louis IX., called Saint Louis, being a minor, his the se-
mother, the excellent Blanche of Castile, held the reins of c™-
government, and with a vigorous hand. He undertook a cm- **#|-
sade for the benefit of Christians in the east, now in distress, the'
He first directed his arms against Egypt, as being the key of E^hdth
the holy land •, but his army was reduced by pestilence, defeat-
ed by the Moslems, and himself made prisoner. He was re-
k The Albigenses, who were in Piedmont, must be distinguished from
the Waldenses, or followers of Peter Waldo, in Dauphiny, Narbonne and
Provence. The Albigenses, so called from the town of Albigeois, were a
sect of the Monichseans, and held to certain doctrines respecting the origin
of good and evil deemed heretical ; with these they mingled an abhorrence
of the Roman hierarchy, for which the pope decreed their destruction. The
Waldenses held to deriving their religion, without the intervention of man,
directly from God — by his holy spirit, and through his written word, which
they circulated. This makes the Waldenses the true precursors of the Re-
formation. The persecution of the Albigenses was, however, equally sinful.
Some distinguish the Vallenses from the Waldenses as a church coming
down from the apostles, and having never bowed to Rome.
11. Where was Richard detained on his return from the holy land?
What did Philip write to John when he escaped ? How did Philip get pos-
session of Normandy ? What gift did he receive from the pope ? What
was Philip's character as a sovereign ? What were his principal acts ? — 12.
For what was the reign of Philip's son memorable ? Who were the Albi-
genses i The Waldenses ? The Vallenses ? Give an account of Louis IX.
8 32
ves-
pers.
250 THE SICILIAN VESPERS.
Middle Hist, leased, in exchange for the city of Damietta of which his army
period v. had obtained possession. After passing four years in the holy
chap. iv. land he returned to his kingdom. But his rage of crusading
v-*^v^lw/ was not extinguished. He invaded the kingdom of Tunis, in
order to convert the monarch and his people ; but himself and
his army fell a prey to an epidemic disease which ravaged the
country.
1253. 13. Philip the Hardy, succeeded his father. In his reign
Philip a massacre of the French took place in the island of Sicily,
Hardyf called the " Sicilian vespers." Charles of Anjou, the sove-
reign of Sicily, was a French prince, and uncle to Philip. His
ambition and talents had made him feared and hated by the
clergy, especially by the pope ; and the seeds of revolt were
sown deep in the minds of the Sicilians. At Palermo, as a
The bride with her train were passing the streets, they were treated
ciiian rudely by a Frenchman. A Sicilian immediately stabbed him
to the heart. Instantly the cry was heard in every direction,
" Kill the French ! kill the French !" Men, women, and chil-
dren were massacred; and the French population in the island
wholly exterminated. Charles escaped from Sicily, and appeal-
ing to his nephew, Philip, engaged him in his cause. Peter,
king of Arragon, had claims upon Naples and Sicily, and these
were now acknowledged by the inhabitants. Philip, in order
to establish the claims of Charles, invaded Spain ; but he suf-
fered much in the attempt, without accomplishing his purpose.
14. Philip "the Fair," engaged in contests with the
Philip' haughty pope, Boniface VIII. His finances being low, he ex-
iv. sue- acted money from the priests, notwithstanding Boniface had
hfsfa- prohibited the clergy of any kingdom whatever, from granting
ther. m0ney to princes, without his special permission. Boniface
sent as a legate, to threaten the king of France, one of his own
Bonf- reDel subjects, who was immediately seized and imprisoned by
face his sovereign. Boniface, enraged, issued a proclamation de-
°ruie0t daring that the " Vicar of Christ was vested with full authority
Philip over ar[ the kings and princes of the earth ;" and ordered the
Fair. French clergy forthwith to repair to Rome. A French priest
carried this proclamation to the king. Philip threw it into the
Their fire, assembled the representatives of the states of his kingdom,
ieadsUtto an^ l&d ^ie case before them. They acknowledged Philip's
the first independent authority, and disavowed the pope's claim. It was
'assem- on this occasion that the representatives of cities were first regu-
biy of iar]y summoned to the national assembly. Philip IV. improved
the civil policy of France, both in the legislative and judicial
1 "^1 4. departments."
Louis x- 15. His son and successor, Louis X., was a mean and avari-
13. What occurred in the reign of Philip the Hardy ? Who was king of
Sicily ? Give an account of the " Sicilian vespers." How did Philip be-
come involved in war with Spain ? — 14. With what pope was Philip IV. at
variance ? What claims did this pope set up ? How did Philip treat him ?
To what memorable assembly did this dispute lead ? In what respect was
France improved by Philip ?
GUNPOWDER FIRST USED. 251
cious king. He executed his prime minister, Marigny, on the mddle Hist-
pretence of his dealing in magic ; but in reality in order to con- period v.
riscate his great possessions. The death of Louis without male chap. v.
heirs, gave rise to a contest respecting the right of female sue- ^^v-1^
cession. The decision was unfavorable to the daughter of the 13*£§.
king, the Salic law having decreed that no female could inherit Philipv.
the crown of France. It passed first to Philip the Long, then
to Charles the Fair, both brothers of the late monarch. The !v.es
short reigns of these princes, who died without heirs, were fol- pwi.
lowed by the elevation of Philtp of Valois, cousin of the late vi.JS
kings ; and thus the crown of France passed from the Capeiians Val01s-
to tfie house of Valois.
CHAPTER V.
England and France.
1. Edward III , put in a claim to the sovereignty of France, 1336.
in right of his mother Isabella, daughter to Philip IV. It was Edward
disallowed by the French, who unanimously placed Philip on
the throne. Edward, doubtless trusting more in the strength
of his arms, than in the justice of his cause, assumed the title
of king of France, and invaded that kingdom, where he fought
the famous battle of Cressy, and defeated the army of Philip with 134@
great slaughter. He then besieged and took Calais, when a truce CgyS
was concluded between the two nations. On taking that city, Edward
which had resisted his arms for nearly twelve months, Edward ™a$J~
threatened to put the inhabitants to the sword, unless they Philip
would deliver up to death six of their principal citizens. Six
noble burghers, self-devoted, came forth to his camp with hal-
ters on their necks. Edward commanded their execution. His
queen Ph.ilippa arrived, threw herself upon her knees, and im-
plored her husband to save them. She prevailed, and the gal-
lant burghers exclaimed, " Edward conquers our cities, but
Philippa our hearts."
2. Artillery was, for the first time, used at the battle of Cressy,
and by the English. The invention of gunpowder is ascribed
to Swartz, a monk of Cologne ; but Roger Bacon of Eng-
land, the greatest European philosopher of the dark ages, had, "f gun-
in a work on chemistry, described the mixture, and its explo- powder,
sive force. Small arms were not used till nearly a century af-
terwards. The knights regarded shooting as a barbarous mode
15. What occurred in the reign of Louis X. ? What respecting the succes-
sion ? Who were the three next kings? What change of dynasty took place ?
Chap. V. — 1. On what ground did Edward III. claim the sovereignty
of France ? What did he to enforce his claim ? What occurred on his
taking Calais? — lZ. Give some account of the invention of gunpowder?
252 MISFORTUNES OF FRANCE.
Middle Hist. 0f attacking an adversary. But experience has demonstrated
period v. that the invention of fire-arms has been one of the greatest means
chap. v. of civilizing the world. As heavy ordnance costs labor and
V-*^^^~N-^ money to transport it, an advantage not before possessed was
Destructive given to the invaded over the invader, which kept nations settled.
warggWet°he The physical strength of a steel-guarded giant, who could deal
to mental8 neavier blows than his neighbors, no longer gained him an as-
over physi- cendancy to which his moral and intellectual energies afforded
TotheTin- nmi no claiiTi. The hazards of war could be better calculated,
vaded over and disputes were oftener settled without bloodshed. What-
ever increases the dangers and hazards of those who fight, na-
turally diminishes the number of wars, as it makes people more
inclined to settle their differences peaceably.
1^»f> ^' ^ truce was made, during which Philip VI. died, and left
John be- the government to his son John, a prince ill qualified for his
comes king station. On the expiration of the truce, the Prince of Wales,
called from his armor the Black Prince, who had when very
*«»Kf* young distinguished himself at Cressy, entered France at the
poic- head of an army, and near Poictiers he encountered the forces
Ed7/£dS'i °f J°nn; and although they were far superior in numbers, he
Black routed them and made their king prisoner. No knight ever
featsjohn" treated a captive with more respectful courtesy, than the Black
of France Prince did king John. He was carried into England, and dur-
ahim'p.ki-S mg h's absence, the government of the kingdom was committed
soner. to the dauphin, afterwards Charles V.
4. A truce with England for two years, relieved France from
foreign enemies ; but it was torn with domestic dissensions,
which the weak administration of the young dauphin was un-
able to check. The national assembly was convened, but instead
of assisting the king's government, they availed themselves of
present disturbances to extend their own prerogatives, and
limit those of the crown. Paris revolted ; the example was fol-
"jaquerie," lowed by many other cities, and anarchy pervaded the nation.
°r ^GrTaV ^n tne war °f ^e " JaQilierie?" the peasants rose against the no-
disorders, bility, burnt their castles, and murdered their families without
mercy. The horror and desolation which spread through the
(The spirit land, and the want of any authority to check disorders, brought
°lhiSeumea the capital to submit to the dauphin, and Charles now pro-
as much ceeded with vigor to restore order in the state. The truce was
France as in now exchanged for a peace. King John was set at liberty for
England.) a ransom m money, and for giving up, without reserving even
right of homage, several French provinces to England.
5. John did not long survive the peace, and the dauphin,
2. Why was it a means of civilization ? — 3. What change in sovereigns
occurred in France ? Was the war suspended or terminated ? Give an ac-
count of the exploit of the Black Prince. Of his courteous behavior. In
John's absence who was at the head of affairs in France? — 1. What sus-
pension of the war now occurred ? What was the condition of the kingdom ?
What occurred in the war of the Jacquerie or peasantry? To what did this
anarchy lead the people of Paris ? On what conditions did the French make
peace with the English ?
DUKE OF BURGUNDY ASSASSINATED. 253
Charles V., ascended the throne. When the internal disor- Mddle Hist-
ders which had so nearly destroyed his kingdom, had by his period v
vigor and prudence been healed, he renewed the war with Eng- CHAP- v-
land ; whose continental affairs, in consequence of the advanced
age of Edward III., and feeble health of the Black Prince, were
now less prosperous. During the remaining years of his reign,
he conquered all the English possessions in France, except
Calais, Bordeaux, and Bayonne.
6. His son, Charles VI., a minor, succeeded him. The am-
bitious dukes of Anjou, Berri, and Burgundy, uncles to the
young king, were made regents during his minority. They 13SO-
overburdened the people with taxes, and lavished the revenues tunate°r"
of the kingdom upon the regal household, or suffered them to ^f France1
be plundered by the officers of government. This state of mis- (the Be-'
rule led to horrible assassinations, and at length a cruel war. loved >
The hostile parties, called from their leaders, Armagnacs or Or-
leanists, and Burgundians, each struggled to obtain the person Horrible
of the king, and as they obtained it, they alternately seized the civil war of
reins of government. The dregs of the populace of Paris es- ^J^JtGn-
poused, with the most ferocious zeal, the parties of the rivals, leansfaction
and unchecked by any authority, committed the most horrid ifurguiJ
crimes. The unfortunate Charles became insane, and never re- dians-
covered. Henry V., now on the throne of England, profited
by the miseries of France, to renew the war. He landed at the ^.
mouth of the Seine, and took Harfleur. On the invasion of a AOI^
foreign enemy, the French, for the moment, suspended their l£°TUyToi.
quarrels, and rallied in defence of the kingdom. An army of England de-
50,000 men, under the constable D'Albret, posted themselves prenc^wfth
near the village of Agincourt, to intercept the English on their 11,000
march. A bloody battle ensued, in which Henry was victorious Engllsh-
over an army more than four times his number.
7. The Burgundian and Armagnac or Orleans factions, again
made war upon each other, and the count d'Armagnac was bar- ci^JJJ|[ in
barously massacred in Paris by John of Burgundy. Henry renewed,
made himself master of Normandy, and prepared to advance to
Paris. The young dauphin, now at the head of the Orleans
party, affected to seek a reconciliation with the Burgundians,
and a meeting between him and duke John, surnamed the Fear- "jeansans
less, was appointed on the bridge of Montereau. The duke JS'bythe
knelt to the dauphin. At the moment, one of the Armagnacs onanists
stabbed him, and he fell dead at the prince's feet. The Burgun- at0f Some-6
dians, who had the good-will of Paris, believed that the royal
family were privy to this deed of treachery, and Philip, their
young duke, hastened to offer to Henry of England the crown
reau.
5. Who succeeded John of France ? What did he before renewing the
war with England ? What was the situation of England's continental af-
fairs ? What did Charles conquer ?— 6. Who was Charles VI. ? Who
were regents during his minority ? What was their character and conduct ?
To what did their misrule lead? What factions arose, and what was their
conduct towards the king ? What befel the king ?— 1. Relate the succeed-
ing murders of the two factions ? To what adjustment with Henry V. of
England did these affairs lead ?
254
JOAN OF ARC FULFILS HER MISSION.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. V.
1420.
Treaty of
Troyes.
Charles VII.
Duke of
Bedford,
English re-
gent in
France.
1424.
VER-
NEUIL.
English un-
der Bedford
defeat the
French.
They be-
siege Or-
leans.
"La Pu-
celle," or
"Maid of
Orleans."
Joan of Arc
raises the
siege of
Orleans.
of France, The other party also, intrigued with this foreign
king. Affairs were compromised by the treaty of Troyes, by
which Henry espoused the princess Catharine, daughter of
Charles VI., and ivas declared heir of the French monarchy.
The two kings Henry V. and Charles VI., died the same year,
and Henry VI., the infant son of Henry V., was proclaimed
king, with equal rejoicings in London and Paris.
8. Nevertheless, the dauphin assumed the government, under
the title of Charles VJI., and took the field. He was crowned
by his partisans at Poictiers, Rheims, the usual place, being in
the hands of his enemies. The regency of France was com-
mitted, on the part of the English, to the duke of Bedford,
uncle of the young Henry.
9. While the English interest in France was supported by
the dukes of Burgundy and Brittany, the nation, after the death
of their monarch, evinced symptoms of returning affection for
the amiable Charles, his son. Yet, though the number of his
adherents increased, and he received auxiliary troops from
Scotland, his treasury was at a low ebb, and his prospects
gloomy. The duke of Bedford obtained a victory over the united
French and Scotch at Verneuil. He then besieged Orleans,
which was considered as the key to France ; and Charles, hope-
less of relieving it, was about to retire, — when his sinking and
almost ruined fortunes were retrieved by means of the most
singular kind. A young female presented herself before him,
and declared herself commissioned by God to deliver the city
of Orleans, and conduct him to Rheims, there to be crowned
and anointed. Her own solemn persuasion of the reality of
her mission, — which was, she said, communicated in visions, —
together with the intrepidity of her manner, made an impres-
sion of awe, — even on the minds of the gay courtiers.
10. The politicians saw, that whether true or false, important
use might be made of the heroic Joan of Arc ; yet at first they
doubted, or pretended to doubt; and called a council of the
clergy, who pronounced her revelations genuine. Clad in steel
armor from head to foot, and mounted on a gallant war-steed,
the maid of Orleans rode forth, bearing a consecrated banner.
She took the command of the army, and assured, as by a voice
from God, the joyful troops followed her into the city. The
English affected to laugh, — but they were heart-stricken with
(The identical steel armor worn by Joan of Arc is in the " Musee d' Ar-
tillerie" at Paris. Its weight is such that an ordinary woman of our day
could not lift it.)
7. What two kings died the same year, and what year? What prince
was proclaimed ? — 8. Who formed, however, a party in France to crown
Charles VII. ? At what place was the coronation, and why at that place ?
Who was the English regent in France ? — 9. With whom did the Scots
take sides? What was the situation of Charles VII.? What battle was
fought, and who conquered? What siege was maintained ? By whom were
the fortunes of Charles retrieved ? Relate her own account of her mission,
and her impression concerning it. — If). What is said of the politicians and
the clergy ? Describe the appearance and first exploits of Joan of Arc.
FRANCE PwECOVERED FROM THE ENGLISH. 255
the fear, that haply they were fighting against God. The hero- Middle Hist.
ine led the French to repeated attacks ; and by continued victo- period v.
ries, compelled their opponents to retire from Orleans. chap. v.
11. She then demanded of the king, that he should depart N^~v"^w/
for Rheims to be crowned. It seemed a mad undertaking, for
the country was in the hands of the English. Yet, Charles
obeyed the mandate. The English, although the duke of Bed-
ford was indefatigable, could scarcely be prevailed on to offer
the little army any annoyance. The cities, as they passed, pf" , '
opened their gates; Rheims sent its keys, and Charles entered — crown-
was crowned — and anointed with the holy oil kept since the R^^g
time of Clovis. Here the maid declared that her mission was
closed ; but the French pleaded for her stay, and she unwisely Joan of
remained in the camp. At the siege of Compegne, she was Arc bar-
taken captive in making a sally, tried by an English ecclesiasti- iy burnt"
cal court for the crime of sorcery, and burnt alive. Her influ-
ence was however still felt. Heaven had interfered in behalf
of the French, and restored their lawful sovereign ; and the
nation, after such divine interposition, was not slow in return-
ing to its duty.
12. The party of the English rapidly declined ; — the death of
the duke of Bedford gave the finishing blow to their misfortunes,
and enabled Charles to obtain entire possession of his kingdom.
The remaining years of his reign were devoted in endeavors to
restore the wasted energies of the nation ; and were successful
in raising it from its long depression, to a high state of pros-
perity and happiness. A standing army was supported by a
tax upon the people. This, by rendering it unnecessary to call 144©
upon the forces heretofore furnished by the vassals of the pf the
crown, prevented the strict relation which had existed between feuda]
svstcm
the nobles and their retainers ; and facilitated the decay of the
feudal policy, found^in the progress of society, to have become
destructive in its consequences, both to the rulers and the
people.
13. Lons XL, the son and successor of Charles, gave early 1461.
indications of that intriguing policy, which characterized his LJUjls
reign. He collected around him to execute his plans, the most politic
degraded of his subjects. His attempts to humble his great faaiUl_
vassals, and extend the prerogatives of the crown, caused a war, less-
known by the name of the war of the "Public Weal," which
ended in a treaty favourable to his subjects ; but which Louis
soon infringed. He was long engaged in hostilities with
Charles, surnamed the Bold, duke of Burgundy.
11. After she had raised the siege of Orleans what did she require of
Charles? Describe the passage of his army, and the result of the move-
ment. What did Joan then declare ? What did she unwisely consent to
do ? What was the consequence ? How was her influence felt after her
death ? — 12. What was now the condition of the English party ? To what
were the remaining years of Charles VII. devoted ? What had been found
to be the operation of the feudal system ? What was done in France par-
tially to destroy it ?■ — 13. Give an account of Louis XI.
256
CHARLES THE BOLD.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. T.
1476.
GRjUYSON
and
MORAT.
Swiss de-
feat
Charles.
JVAJSTC Y.
Duke of
Lorraine
defeats
Charles the
Bold.
Louis
treacherous
and cruel,
and yet for
the people
at large a
good sove-
reign.
1483
Charles
VIII.
14. Burgundy, as a kingdom, was founded by Rudolf. At
one period it comprised Switzerland as far as the river Aar, — the
country north of the present province of Burgundy, once called
Austrasia and Metz ; while on the south it took in at its greatest
extent Dauphiny and Provence. In 1369 Flanders and Artois
had been added to the duchy, by the marriage of duke Philip
the Good to Margaret, the heiress of these domains. By other
means he acquired dominion over the whole of the Low Coun-
tries. The duchy of Burgundy was now an independent sove-
reignty, in a high state of cultivation, and celebrated for its
manufactures of wool. Charles the Bold, who succeeded
John, was the richest and most powerful — kept the most splendid
court for tournaments and feats of arms — of any sovereign in
Europe. Louis XI. took the extraordinary resolution, after
giving Charles much cause of discontent, to go almost alone to
pay the fierce Burgundian a visit. Charles, however, was by
no means outwitted by him ; and Louis could only get from
his power by mortifying concessions. The Swiss, whom
Charles despised, defeated him in the battles of Granson and
Morat. Charles, in attempting to establish his authority in
Lorraine, was killed in battle near Nancy. His only child,
Mary, married Maximilian of Austria.
15. On the death of Charles, Louis seized part of the do-
minions of Mary, his daughter, the heiress of Burgundy. Multi-
tudes of the subjects of Louis were sacrificed to his cruelty
and treachery. During his reign, 4000 are estimated to have
perished by torture, without any kind of trial. Yet he was
himself perpetually tormented by the fear of death, and of that
punishment thereafter, which he well knew that, for his crimes,
he had merited. Yet, as a king, Louis XI. was to the people at
large, a better sovereign than many who dazzle by generous
qualities, and excite admiration for valor. If he oppressed the
people himself, he suffered no one else to do it ; and one tyrant
has always been found a less evil than many. Louis XI. was
succeeded by his son Charles VIII., who married Anne, the
duchess of Brittany, by which that province, the last of the
great feudatories of France, was annexed to the crown.
14. Give an account of Burgundy as to its founder and early extent ?
What domains did Philip the Good add by marriage and otherwise? In
what state did he leave the duchy to his successor — or what is said of the
power and wealth of Charles the Bold? What was done by Louis XI. ?
How did he get out of the power of Charles ? What people did Charles
despise ? In what battles did they defeat him ? Where did he lose his
life ? Who was his heiress ? Whom did she marry ? — 15, By whom were
a part of Mary's dominions seized ? What was the character of Louis XI. ?
CHAPTER VI.
England and Scotland.
1. Richard, on the conclusion of the truce with Saladin,
hastened his return to his own kingdom, where the intrigues of
his brother John, and Philip Augustus, rendered his presence
necessary. On his arrival in Germany, where he travelled in
disguise, he was discovered, and made prisoner by the duke of
Austria ; who, for ^660,000 placed him in the hands of the em-
peror. After two years he was liberated, the English paying
the emperor .£300,000. He then returned to England, and was
welcomed with joyful acclamations by his subjects. His brother
John had cause to dread his approach ; but Richard, naturally
kind-hearted, was willing to overlook his misdeeds. " I freely
forgive him," said he, " and I hope 1 may forget his wrongs, as
soon as he will my pardon." Richard though a valorous knight,
and a jovial companion, was fierce and rash in conduct ; and his
reign was unfortunate for his country. His delight was in hard
blows, and he received his death-wound in storming the castle
of a rebellious subject in France.
2. On his death there were two claimants of the English
throne ; John, who took immediate possession, and Arthur
of Brittany, his nephew, son of Geoffrey Plantagenet, an elder
brother. John defeated the forces of Arthur, took the young
prince prisoner, and killed him. The king of France summoned
John to answer for the murder of Arthur, both John and Arthur
being, on account of their French possessions, vassals of that
monarch. John not appearing, his domains were forfeited, and
Philip took possession of Normandy, Maine and Anjou, wliicli
were thus alienated from England.
3. The unnatural murder of his nephew Arthur, and the
continued violence and oppression of which John was guilty,
had rendered his character and person odious to his English
subjects ; while his weakness enabled the people to put forth
their claims to those rights of which they had long been de-
prived. A confederacy, including nearly all the nobility of
England, demanded the restoration of their ancient laws, and
the redress of their grievances. To enforce their demands, they
prepared for war. John found himself compelled to treat with his
subjects a-tRunymede, and he subscribed " the charter," or the
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VI.
1199.
John.
Arthur's
murder.
Normandy
and the
French pro-
vinces lost.
1215.
The barons
at Runy-
mede com-
pel John to
grant them
the Magna
Charta.
Chap. VI. — 1. What happened to Richard on his return from the cru-
sade ? How was the affair concerning his ransom ? How much money did
the emperor make ? What occurred between him and his brother John ?
What was Richard's character, and the manner of his death ? — 2. What
claimants were there to the crown ? What was the conduct of John, and
the fate of Arthur ? What was done by the king of France ? What pro-
vinces did the English lose ? — 3. What made John unpopular and even
odious ? What important measure was now taken by the nobles ? What
constitution did they obtain from John ? Where and when ?
33 25T
258
MAGNA CHARTA.
Middle Hist.
Its leading
stipulations.
John's bad
faith.
1216.
Henry III.
Ten years
of age.
Louis is de-
feated ai
sea and
abandons
England.
1236.
Henry III.
marries
Eleanor of
Provence.
1258.
Parliament
at Oxford-
" Magna Charta." The venerable archbishop of Canterbury,
Stephen Langton, braved the displeasure of the pope, by
being one of the foremost in procuring, and afterwards defend-
ing from the faithless attempts of John, this great chart of Eng-
land's freedom. Twenty-five of the barons were named as
guardians of the liberty of the kingdom, to whom was com-
mitted the charge of seeing the provisions of the charter ex-
ecuted. This important instrument contains the germ of Eng-
lish constitutional liberty ; and not only of English liberty, but
of American. The main points for which the charter gives
surety are: — 1, representation in parliament; 2, trial by jury;
3, writs of habeas corpus. It provides also for the fixed and
regular returns of the courts of common pleas, and for the
safety of foreign merchants travelling within the realm.
4. John now gave his dominions to the pope, and received
them back as a fief of the Holy See, together with absolution
from his engagements. Then supplying himself with foreign
mercenaries, he attacked the unsuspecting barons, burned their
castles, and laid waste their territories. The barons, enraged,
offered the crown of England to Louis, the son of Philip Au-
gustus of France, who entered England with an army. But on
the death of John, many of the nobles withdrew their support
from Louis, and proclaimed Henry III., the son of John. He
being a minor, the earl of Pembroke, a wise and upright states-
man, was made regent. He conducted the war against Louis, and
compelled him to renounce his claim to the crown of England.
5. Henry married Eleanor, the daughter of the count of
Provence. That portion of France became early polished in
manners ; and those of her countrymen who followed the
queen, made themselves agreeable to the king, and received his
favors ; while they looked superciliously down on the offended
nobles of England. Henry applied to the parliament for money
to enable him to invade France. The barons first demanded
the confirmation of the charter, which was granted. The inva-
sion was fruitless ; meanwhile the spirit of disaffection spread
throughout the kingdom. The great charier was again renewed
by Henry with the most imposing ceremonies ; but he afterwards
disregarding it, a parliament was summoned at Oxford, which
confirmed and extended the rights of the people.
6. At the head of the party opposed to the king, was Simon
de Montfort, earl of Leicester, who by his talents and address
3. What ecclesiastic of England here favored the cause of human rights
as well as English liberty ? For what were 25 barons selected ? What
are the main points for which the charter stipulates ? — 4-. What conduct of
John showed him not to have been in good faith when he made the engage-
ments of the " Magna Charta ?" To whom did the English barons offer the
crown, and what was the consequence ? What occurred on the death of
John respecting the succession and the "regency ? What war did earl Pem-
broke finish, and how ? — 5. Who was Henry's queen ? What was the con-
duct of the French who accompanied the queen ? For what did Henry apply
to the parliament ? How was his application met by the barons ? Where and
in what assembly was the great charter finally renewed ?
THE FIRST HOUSE OP COMMONS.
259
had insinuated himself into the confidence of the people. A
civil war ensued. Leicester obtained possession of the person
of the king ; and for two years exercised the regal power in his
name. Edward, the eldest son of Henry, who had at first
joined the party against his father, now took the command of
the royalists, and by his energy and valor, he obtained a vic-
tory over the forces of Leicester at Evesham, where that cele-
brated earl was slain. Although the reign of Henry is not con-
sidered a glorious one, yet during its long continuance his
kingdom was less oppressed by exactions than in the times of
more warlike sovereigns. It increased in wealth, and extended
its commerce ; the rights of the common people became more re-
spected, and for the first time they were represented in 'parlia-
ment.
7. His son and successor, Edward, in the period which in-
tervened between the battle of Evesham and his father's death,
went, at the summons of the pope, accompanied by his queen,
Eleanor of Spain, and a few military followers — not so much
to aid the cause of the Christians, as to behold their defeat in
the Holy Land. Yet he found various occasions for the display
of bravery and sagacity. He came near falling the victim of an
assassin. An infidel stabbed him in his tent, with a poisoned
weapon. The affectionate Eleanor sucked out the poison
nursed and tended him, and he slowly recovered from its effects.
8. Edward returned to England on the death of his father, and
having regulated the affairs of his kingdom, his aspiring mind con-
ceived the design of uniting in his own person the dominion of the
whole island. The Welsh, the ancient Britons, now under
their king Lewellyn, struggled bravely to retain their indepen-
dence, but were conquered. Lewellyn was slain in battle. His bro-
ther, prince David, was made prisoner by the English, tried as a
traitor, and executed with a barbarity not unfrequent in that
cruel age. Tradition says that Edward then assembled the
leaders of the Welsh, and told them he would give them for
their sovereign, a prince, with whose manners no possible fault
could be found, a Welshman by birth, who could not even
speak a word of English ; and amidst their acclamations and
promises of obedience, he produced his infant son, born in
Wales, in the castle of Caernarvon. This was his second son,
but the oldest dying, the " Prince of Wales" became thereafter
the title of the heir of the monarchy.
9. Events transpired in Scotland which gave tp Edward the
desired opportunity to interfere in the affairs of that kingdom.
Alexander HI. died, leaving no other descendant than a grand-
6. Who was Simon de Montfort, and what part did he act ? Who set
the royal party free from him, and at what battle ? What may be said of
Henry's reign ? When was the first regular parliament called ? Of what
representatives did it consist ? — T. What crusade did prince Edward join?
What happened to him in the Holy Land ? — 8. On what occasion did he
return ? Give an account of the conquest of Wales. Of the origin of the
title applied to the eldest son of English kings. — 9. What is said of Alex-
ander III. ?
Middle Hist.
PERIOD v.
CHAP. VI.
Between
1270
and
1274.
Prince Ed-
ward joins
the Eighth
Crusade.
1274.
Edward I.
12§2.
Edward
conquers
Wales.
Origin of
the title
' Prince of
Wales."
260
EDWARD I. WALLACE.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VI.
Edward
meets the
Scottish no-
bles at Nor-
ham.
Decides in
favor of
Baliol.
1296
Edward
makes Ba-
liol prisoner.
William
Wallace.
daughter, Margaret, then about three years of age ; the off-
spring of Eric king of Norway, and Margaret, daughter of
Alexander. She was affianced to Edward, the young prince of
Wales, son of the king of England ; and she was taken from
her home to be there educated. The delicate little " maid of
Norway" withered like a transplanted flower, and died at
the Orkney Islands, on her passage to England. Thirteen
claimants to the Scottish crown appeared, but all were soon
dismissed, except John Baliol and Robert Bruce. They
were both descendants of the earl of Huntingdon, third son of
David I. king of Scotland. Baliol's claims would at this day
have been acknowledged without controversy, as he was de-
scended from the eldest daughter of the earl of Huntingdon,
being her grandson ; but he was one remove farther from the
blood of the Scottish king than Bruce, who was the son of the
second daughter of the earl.
10. Henry II. had compelled William, king of Scotland,
;whom he had taken prisoner, to do homage for his kingdom.
Richard I. renounced this claim. Edward renewed it, nor dared
Alexander III. refuse compliance* In virtue of being lord para-
mount, Edward, on the death of Margaret, summoned the Scot-
tish nobility and clergy to meet him at Norham, on the south-
ern bank of the Tweed ; where, by his address, he succeeded
in inducing them to recognise his supreme authority, and leave
to his decision the question of right between Bruce and Baliol.
Both the competitors also gave their solemn assent to his arbi-
tration as sovereign lord of Scotland. After calling much
learned council to his aid, Edward decided in favor of Baliol.
Baliol, however, soon found the English yoke galling-, and his
haughty temper being wrought upon by his nobles, he con-
cluded an alliance with Edward's enemies, the French, and ob-
tained from the pope a dispensation from his oath of fealty.
11. Edward invaded Scotland at the head of a powerful army,
crossed the Tweed, defeated the forces of Baliol, and carried
him prisoner to England. William Wallace now rose from
obscurity. The fame of his brave and successful exploits drew
multitudes to his standard, and at length placed him at the head
of a considerable army. He defeated the English governor,
near Stirling, made himself master of that fortress, and laid
* On his knees, in presence of the English prelates and barons, he said,
" I Alexander, king of Scotland, become the liege man of the lord Edward,
king of England, against all men." This may serve as a specimen of what
is meant by the phrase " doing homage," so frequently occurring in the his-
tory of the feudal times. Several conditions, such as supplying a certain
number of troops, &c, were generally annexed to this acknowledgment of
paramount authority.
9. Who was the " Maid of Norway," and what was her fate? What
account can you give of the claimants to the Scottish throne ? — lO. How
did Edward I. get up a claim to arbitrate in the affairs of Scotland ? What
question was left to his decision? How did he decide? What is further
said of Baliol ? — 11. What measures did the king of England take ? Give
an account of the first public acts of William Wallace ?
ROBERT BRUCE.
261
waste the country to Durham. Edward, who had concluded a
peace with France, turned now his whole strength upon Scot-
land; defeated the Scots at Falkirk, proceeded to the northern
parts of the kingdom, and for a time, again subjected it to his
power. Wallace still maintained his independence, but was at
length betrayed to Edward by his pretended friend, Sir John
Monteith, and suffered, on Tower Hill at London, the cruel death
of a traitor.
12. Robert Bruce was grandson to the competitor of Ba-
liol. His father, in hopes of obtaining from Edward the Scot-
tish crown, had joined the English army. After the battle of
Falkirk he held a conference with Wallace on the banks of the
Carron. But instead of being persuaded to submit to Edward,
the undaunted patriot indignantly upbraided Bruce with having,
for ambition, basely abandoned his native land, and sacrificed
her independence. Bruce felt his reproaches so keenly that he
sickened ; and with his dying breath he exhorted his son to
make atonement to his suffering country. On the death of Wal-
lace, young Bruce fled from England and offered himself as a
leader to the Scots, who burned with rage at the base execution
of their hero. He was joyfully received, but soon found him-
self surrounded by dangers and difficulties. Comyn, the heir of
Baliol held the sovereignty, and affected to combine with Bruce,
while secretly he plotted to betray him. Bruce stabbed him ;
and was crowned king at Scone. Edward was enraged, and at
a grand military court at Westminster, he and his son swore
never to rest till Scotland was subdued. Bruce was driven to
extremities ; his wife and daughters were made prisoners, and,
with a few followers, he found a winter's refuge in the island of
Rachrin. In the spring he passed over to Arran, where his ene-
mies were in full possession of the country. But the hearts of
the people were with Bruce.. Raising 300 men, he surprised
the English and took the castle of Turnberry in Carrick. His
followers increased; and for eight years he kept the field and
held the whole force of England at bay.
13. Edward I., to fulfil his oath, bad raised a large army, and
having marched to Carlisle, disease put a period to his life.
During his reign England made great advances, both in national
power and prosperity, and in individual security. He is called
the English Justinian, from his improvements in jurisprudence.
He established the regularity of parliaments, and confirmed the
right of the people to take a share in them by their representa-
tives. Edward II. his successor, withdrew the forces which
his father had marched into Scotland, or left them under lieu-
Mddle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VI.
1306.
Bruce
crowned,
March 27.
130T
Edward II.
Weak and
governed by
favorit&s.
11. Give a further account of Edward I. What was the fate of Wal-
lace ? — IS. Who was Robert Bruce? Relate what part his father took in
the war in which Wallace was the Scottish chief? Relate the course of
young Bruce up to the time of his coronation ? What oath was taken by
Edward and his son ? What was now the condition and conduct of Bruce ?
— 13. What was the last public act of Edward? Where did he die? What
was the effect of his reign upon England ? What was he called and for
what reason ? What did he establish and confirm ?
262
THE SCOTS STRIKE FOR INDEPENDENCE.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VI.
Piers
Gaveston
executed.
1314.
BAN-
NO CK-
BURN.
The Scots
under
Bruce, with
30,000, de-
feat Ed-
ward II.
with 100,000.
1321.
Hugh Spen-
cer, a new
favorite,
causes civil
war.
1322.
Lancaster
beheaded.
tenants, contrary to his father's dying commands. The reign
of this weak prince was disgraced by his subserviency to the
worthless favorites whom he kept around him. His nobles, dis-
affected with his retreat from Scotland, and enraged at behold-
ing unlimited honors and riches lavished upon a Gascon named
Piers Gaveston, revolted, and placed at their head, Thomas,
earl of Lancaster, cousin to the king. Edward was at length
compelled to yield his favorite to the public indignation, and to
renew the Scottish war.
14. Brace's authority was now acknowledged throughout
Scotland, and with the exception of a few fortresses, all the con-
quests of the English had been recovered. His army which
was assembled in the county of Stirling, was much inferior to
the English, but rendered intrepid by the knowledge that they
must fight for their homes, and their independence. Edward
himself headed the English. The Scots had made careful pre-
parations for the action, and chosen well their battle field, — the
memorable plain of Bannockburn. The armies were in sight
of each other when the Scots knelt to implore the blessing of
heaven, and to receive the benediction of their priests. Edward,
who had expressed his doubts whether they would " abide bat-
tle," on beholding the army in this posture of supplication, ex-
claimed joyfully, " they crave mercy." " It is from heaven, not
from your highness," replied Umfraville, a Scotchman in the
English service ; " on this field they will either win or die."
His prediction was fulfilled; the English were defeated, and
driven into their own kingdom.
15. After this unsuccessful campaign against the Scotch, the
peace of England was again disturbed by the animosities of the
nobility against the favorites of the king. Hugh Spencer was
now the object of the royal favor, and of the nation's jealousy.
This favorite, and his father, were banished, but were shortly
after recalled; and a civil war ensued, in which the earl of Lan-
caster was taken by the king and beheaded at Pomfret. A truce
was concluded with Scotland for thirteen years, and the queen
Isabella, the beautiful but unprincipled sister of the king of
France, returned to her native country to settle disputes which
had arisen between her brother and her husband. In France
Isabella united her influence with the members of the Lancas-
trian faction, with whose chief, Mortimer, she carried on an in-
trigue. She conspired against her husband, and re-embarking
for England, landed at Ore well in Suffolk. The disaffected ba-
rons of England flocked to her standard, and Edward found him-
self nearly deserted. The Spencers were made prisoners and
13. What was the character and conduct of his successor? Who was
Piers Gaveston? What was done by the nobles? What two measures
were taken by Edward to restore himself to fav,or ? — 14. Describe the bat-
tle of Bannockburn ? — 15. What favorite again provoked the barons to re-
bel? What befel the earl of Lancaster ? Who was queen Isabella ? For
what did she go to France ? With what nobleman did she form a conspi-
racy against her husband ? When she landed in England how was she re-
ceived ?
EDWARD III. INVADES FRANCE. 263
executed. The queen summoned a parliament which deposed jg*g Hist.
Edward, on the ground of incapacity for governing. period v.
16. His son, Edward III. was placed upon the throne ; and chap. vi.
the regency committed to the queen. The deposed monarch w~v~^/
was carried from place to place, till at length he was confined 132?.
in Berkley castle. The vassals one night heard dreadful shrieks Edward IIL
from his apartment, — the next morning his death was announced,
and no one doubted that he had been murdered. The nation
was not long deluded by the pretences of Isabella and Mortimer, (Isabella is
who still kept the young prince under their control. A con- sPoet Gray.6
spiracy, to which he was privy, was formed, which succeeded ''she-woifof
in delivering him from the power of the regency. Mortimer
was taken and executed. Isabella was spared from regard to
her rank and sex, but remained a prisoner. She was held in
contempt for her vices during the rest of her life ; but received
in her confinement annual visits from her son.
17. Meantime Scotland had passed from the vigorous hand
of Robert Bruce, to his son David II., a minor. Sir James 1329.
Douglas, who was at one time the support of the throne of ^bSSb
Bruce, was absent, and the regency was committed to Randolph sets out with
earl of Murray. Edward Baliol, son of John Baliol, took lh|ruceftof
this opportunity of advancing his claim to the Scottish throne, carry it to
which was supported by the English. He collected an army Land, bu/in
which defeated that of Bruce at Halidon hill. David was forced ^JJJf^j11
to take refuge in France. A Scottish parliament was called, who Spain, is
recognized Baliol as their sovereign, and some of the nobles kllled-)
took the oath of fealty. Soon, however, the attachment of the 4333.
Scots to their former monarch, and their inveterate animosity (Hjilidojv-
towards the English, by whom Baliol was supported, revived EdwardBa-
the party of the son of Bruce, and a second and a third invasion 1g1 d?,feIaIts
by Edward of England, failed of establishing Baliol on the
throne. 1339.
18. Meanwhile the English monarch assumed the title of king Edward' in.
of France, and with an army invaded that kingdom by the way invades
of Flanders. He obtained an important naval victory near He I- 1346.
veot-Sluys, after which he returned to England, to make more Gains the
vigorous preparations for another war. This proved success- Dressy.
ful. "The great battle of Cressy was fought, and Calais taken. k?illsipe
During this war, David Bruce had returned from France to hemia, the
Scotland, and having raised an army, he carried his arms into F^j^^'s
the north of England, where he was defeated and made prisoner 6,000 knights
by an army led by the queen, Philippa, of Hainault. ame5eJnd~
19. At the expiration of the truce which succeeded the sur- so,ooo soi-
render of Calais, the war with France was renewed by Edward,
16. Who was placed on the throne ? What became of the deposed king?
What was done by the young prince ? How was Mortimer treated ? How
was Isabella? — IT. What were the circumstances which led to the battle
of Halidon-hill ? How did this battle terminate, and what followed it ? What
opposition did Baliol find ? — 18. Give an account of Edward's first invasion
of France ? What great victory was subsequently gained by his army ?
What city taken? What loss did the vanquished sustain? What success
was in the meantime gained against the Scots ?
264
THE DEATH-SCENE OF A KING.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VII.
1376.
He dies.
Alice Per-
rars.
Death of
Edward III.
(Manufac-
ture of wool
introduced
from Flan-
ders.)
the valiant prince of Wales, already so much distinguished as
" the Black Prince." At the battle of Poictiers, he defeated a
French army greatly superior in force, and made John, the
reigning king, prisoner. He was sent to England, where the
king of Scotland was also a captive. Another truce of two
years followed this battle, when the monarchs entered into a
treaty, by which Edward III. renounced his pretensions to the
crown of France, but obtained the full sovereignty of the ancient
English possessions, and recent conquests in that country, to-
gether with a liberal ransom for the French king.
20. The differences between England and Scotland were set-
tled by the death of Edward Baliol, and the recognition of Da-
vid II. by the king of England. The Black Prince received
from his father the sovereignty of Aquitaine and Gascony. His
chivalric spirit led him to Spain, to reinstate upon his throne
"Peter the Cruel," whose daughter Constance, his brother,
John of Gaunt had married. But his health failed, and he
returned to England, to die a lingering death. After his return
the French renewed the war, and recovered, by the valor of
the constable Du Guesclin, all the cities which the English
had owned in France except Bordeaux, Bayonne, and Calais.
After the death of queen Philippa, Edward kept about his per-
son one Alice Perrars, to whose care and mercy he was aban-
doned when a mortal disease was upon him. She removed him
to Shene, and the morning before his death, robbed him of the
very ring upon his finger, and departed. The other servants
left the helpless man to plunder his house; and he who had
been the most powerful monarch of his age, would have
breathed his last sigh alone, had not a priest chanced to come
in. He admonished him of his situation; Edward thanked
him — wept — and expired.
21. This king improved England in its legislation, police, and
especially in commerce and manufactures. The magnificent
castle of Windsor was built by him. But his foreign wars had
drained his kingdom. His successes were but a dazzling show;
the evils that followed were a sad reality.
CHAPTER VII.
The war of the Roses.
13?1?. 1- Richard II., son of the Black Prince, at the age of twelve,
Richard II. succeeded his grandfather. On account of his minority, the
19. Give an account of the battle of Poictiers, and mention how long it
was after the battle of" Cressy. What were the conditions of the truce
which followed ? — SO. How were the differences with Scotland adjusted ?
Give a further account of the Black Prince. Of his father. — 21. What was
the character of Edward's reign, as to his management of internal affairs ?
Chap. VII. — 1. Who succeeded Edward III.? What was his age?
W1CKL1FFE THE GREAT MAN OF HIS DAY. 265
administration was intrusted to his uncles, the dukes of Lan- Middle mst.
caster, York, and Gloucester; the latter of whom had a period v.
controlling ascendancy in the government. A state of gloomy chap. vir.
discontent pervaded England. Not only had the foreign wars ^-^^v^
of Edward drained the kingdom ; but the galling servitude of
feudalism, amounting to personal slavery, was yet unbroken,
and worse than the tyranny of lords temporal, was that of the
lords spiritual. Besides tithes and rich perquisites, the clergy
owned, at this time, more than one half the landed property in
England. A great man now appeared as a reformer, — John y^e'
Wickliffe, born in 1324. He was educated at Oxford, and -Jjjjg*
there received distinguished honours. As early as- 1370 he be-
gan to speak openly of the corruptions of the Romish church,
and to charge the pope with claiming usurped powers. Edward
III. invited him to court, and gave him the living of Lutterworth.
The pope commanded the English clergy to seize the arch-here- Makes
tic; but John of Gaunt favored him, and he eluded their utmost his ap-
vigilance. He then came boldly before parliament, with a se- ^\i£-
vere paper against the papal infallibility, and in favor of the ment.
scriptures being used in the vernacular tongue. This he did 1334,
preparatory to publishing a translation of the Bible. Wick- Trans-
lifTe was afterwards persecuted ; but he lived to old age, and died laBibiehe
of disease ; and though his bones were afterwards exhumed and
burnt, yet his doctrines, which had gone into the minds of men,
there remained and germinated.
2. The discontent of the people broke out in Dartford, fifteen
miles from London. A tax gatherer insulted the daughter of a
blacksmith ; the enraged father slew him by a blow with his ham-
mer. To shield their townsman from the consequences of the
act, and to avenge their own cause, his neighbors rallied around
him. They took their way to London, and their numbers increas-
ed as they went on. They entered the city, burned the duke
of Lancaster's palace, pillaged others, and murdered those of 1381.
the higher orders who fell into their hands. At Smithfleld, Ins«r"
o 7 ruction
Richard, then in his seventeenth year, had a conference with ofWat
Wat Tyler, of Maidstone, whom the insurgents had placed at Tyler-
their head. Signs of an intention to stab the young king were
shown by Wat. Walworth, mayor of London, thrust a small
sword into his throat, and he fell. The archers drew their bows
to avenge his death. Richard rode intrepidly up to them, and
spoke like a king ; " What are you doing my lieges ; Wat was
a traitor : come with me, and I will be your leader." The
rabble, disconcerted and overawed, followed him as he rode off
the field. The nobility had been meantime collecting with
their followers. The insurgents, on their knees, implored the
king's mercy ; and, influenced by the wishes of the royalists,
1. Who formed the regency during his minority? What was the state
of the public mind in England ? What causes of discontent had the peo-
ple ? What did the clergy receive, and what own? Give an account of
the English reformer. — 2. Give an account of the insurrection of Wat
Tyler. Of the behaviour of Richard II. on that occasion.
34
266 HIGH STATION DANGEROUS TO YOUTH.
Middle Hist. Richard granted it, and they returned to their homes, only two
period v. of tne leaders being executed.
chap. vii. 3. From this period, when the warm-hearted and elegant
-~v~w young king had given such happy presages of a good reign, we
see him by degrees become the victim of a situation which,
however desirable it may seem, tends to ruin the character, and
blight the happiness of the individual. Richard's ambitious
uncles, desirous to keep him from politics, that they might rule
unchecked, placed around him gay young men, and encouraged
the disposition to pleasure natural to his age. When he became
attached to these youthful companions, and granted them favors
and emoluments — and when his pleasures became expensive,
they charged him with favoritism and extravagance. They
fomented discontents against him, and raised a powerful party,
who deprived him of all his friends, — some of whom were sen-
tenced to death, and executed. Richard learned dissimulation,
and quietly remained a mere cypher, while the duke of Glou-
cester and his party governed in his name.
4. In the meantime the excitement subsided. Some of the
adherents of Gloucester privately offered their services to the
R?hard ^n& anc* Ricnard agam extricated himself by a bold stroke,
as- In a great council held at Easter, he unexpectedly asked his
thTgo- uncle his age- " Your highness," said the duke, " is in your
vern- twenty-second year." " Then," said the king, " I must be old
plreon? enough to manage my own concerns ; I thank you my lords
for your past services, but do not need them longer." He im-
mediately demanded the seals from the arch-bishop of York,
and the keys of the exchequer from the bishop of Hereford,
and proceeded to appoint new officers. Gloucester was obliged
to yield, and Richard continued for several years to. govern with
discretion. At length, forgetting the lesson taught by adversity,
Giou- he gave himself up to the gratification of revenge and avarice.
cester Jealousies had always existed between him and his uncle Glou-
m ed.e cester, who was now suddenly arrested and sent to Calais,
where he was secretly murdered.
5. Not long after the death of Gloucester, Henry, duke of
?a,Uof" Hereford, son to John of Gaunt, (or Ghent) duke of Lancas-
Hainuit ter, was arrested on the charge of holding language disrespectful
birth eto to the king, and sentenced to banishment for ten years. On
j16h s°in tne death °f the duke °*" Lancaster, Richard unrighteously
Ghent.) seized his immense estates, the rightful property of his son.
The nobles wrote to Hereford at Paris. He took advantage of
Richard's absence on an expedition into Ireland, and landed in
England; where he was joined by many of the most power-
ful barons, and soon collected a large army ; his ostensible
3. Give an account of the manner in which his uncles corrupted his mind,
and destroyed his peace. — 4h How did he manage to get the government
into his own hands? How did he govern at first ? What faults did he af-
terwards commit ? What did he in regard to his uncle Gloucester ? — 5.
What unrighteousness was he guilty of in regard to the son of his uncle
John of Gaunt ?
I
3
" PRINCE HAL" BECOMES HENRY V. 267
object being to claim his inheritance. The duke of York, who Middle Hist-
was regent of the kingdom in the absence of Richard, joined period v.
Henry, now duke of Lancaster, who thus obtained possession chap. vn.
of London. The ministers of Richard were imprisoned, tried ^«^v-^^
by a military court, condemned, and executed as traitors.
6. When Richard learned the news of a general insurrection 1399.
in his kingdom, he was overwhelmed with grief. He landed in £jjg"
Wales, where he remained some time without forces sufficient of Lan-
to cope with his adversaries. At length, under pretence of ^J8"
negotiation, Richard was made prisoner, and taken by Henry to York.
London. So fallen were his fortunes, that as he passed through
the streets, " no man cried God save him." He renounced the
crown, whether voluntarily or not, is uncertain. The parliament
deposed him for tyranny, and decided that he should be kept a
prisoner. He died in the castle of Pontefract. The circum- Rljj!rd
stances of his death are not known, though there are grounds posed.
for suspicion that violence was used.
7. The duke of Lancaster was now seated on the throne, 1399.
under the title of Henry JV. His reign was soon disturbed by HJV7
the insurrection of the Percies in the north, and of Owen sf^^"
Glendower, in Wales. The northern insurrection was quelled Henry
by the battle of Shrewsbury, in which the revolters were de- fe'atg"
feated; and Percy, (called Hotspur, from his fiery temper,) the "Ho*,"
son of the earl of Northumberland, was killed. The valorous
Owen Glendower so long maintained the contest in Wales, and
with such unequal force, that he was suspected of being a
magician. The uncertain title by which Henry IV. held the
throne was calculated to make him pay court to parliament, and
their privileges were enlarged during his reign. In this reign --ftl
the first laws were passed for punishing heretics by death. Feb 19"
William Sawtry, a Wickliffite rector, was burnt at Smithfield ;
the first Christian in England who was put to death, by men
professing to be Christians, for alleged errors of opinion, ijliq
8. Henry of Monmouth, was made prince of Wales, and HeTiry"
duly acknowledged as heir to the crown; to which he sue- v.
ceeded, on the death of his father, under the title of Henry peare's
V. The youth of this prince, with the exception of occasional "£*i™e
flashes of valor, and a few acts of wisdom, was spent in frolics sir wn-
and dissipation, amidst dissolute companions. On his accession J^™
to the crown, the idlers who had surrounded him, expected to goine,
be promoted ; and the wise, who had rebuked his youthful jSu/e,
follies, to be persecuted. But the man saw with different eyes had
from the boy ; and while he dismissed the former, he advanced Com-
the latter. — Laws were enacted against the followers of Wick- fjjjj^j]
line as heretics ; yet the sect increased, and under the name of prison.).
I
hi
©
1
5. Give an account of the progress of Henry of Lancaster, until he ob-
tains possession of London.— 6. Where was Richard? Give the final
history of this unfortunate king. — T. Of what house, or family, was Rich-
ard's successor ? What insurrections were there ? What battle occurred ?
How was it with the parliament ?— 8. How had Henry V. spent his youth ?
How did he conduct when he became king ?
268 MARGARET OF ANJOU.
Middle Hist. Lollards, they formed an extensive party in the realm. The
period v. proceedings against them became so severe as to drive them
chap. vn. into open rebellion. They were dispersed, and their leader,
V-^"N^S*»/ Sir John Oldcastle, lord of Cobham, a most worthy gentle-
man, was cruelly executed.
9. Henry now renewed the claim of the Plantagenets to the
Henry crown °f France ; the distracted state of that kingdom, under
invades Charles V. offering a prospect of success. At the head of a
e* powerful army he invaded France, laid siege to Harfeur, which
he soon reduced, and terminated his first campaign by the
1414.
AGIN-
COURT.
memorable victory of Agincourt. Through the success of
his arms, and by treaties with the Burgundian faction, Henry
v. de- made himself master of Paris^ and of a large portion of
French! France. He then married the princess Catharine, daughter
of the French king, and was acknowledged heir of that monarchy.
Charles was reinstated on the throne, but he was merely a no-
minal king, while the real authority was in the hands of the
English sovereign. Catharine, after Henry's death, married
Owen Tudor, of Wales ; and from the connexion sprung the
house of Tudor.
1421. 10. Henry V. died in France, — his son Henry the VI. being
Hv"ry yet an mfant- Before his death, he appointed his brothers, the
1444 dukes of Gloucester and Bedford, the former to the regency of
Henry England, and the latter to that of France. The decay of the
English power in that kingdom, connected with the story of the
Waiter " Maid of Orleans," has already been related. Henry VI. was
Scott free from vice, mild and forgiving ; but he was destitute of ca-
Charles pacity. At the age of twenty-five, on the suggestion of his
the Bold council, he bethought himself of marriage ; and his bride was
"Had i Margaret, daughter of the good Rene, patron of" the joyous
boked science" °f tne troubadours, — titular king of Sicily, and duke of
with Anjou. Margaret was beautiful in person, and had she found a
^etSi" projector in her husband, (to whom she appears to have been
could ever an affectionate and faithful wife,) she might, perhaps, have
dhrawn been feminine in character. But she was obliged to be the sup-
her;but porter of one whose mind, naturally weak, sometimes sank
mjTneck into utter imbecility ; and history presents her as a masculine
think of woman? coping with the most able politicians and commanders
I it.") of her day.
11. When Henry IV. succeeded to the sovereignty on the
deposition of Richard II., who died without issue, there were
still living some of the descendants of the duke of Clarence,
elder brother of John of Gaunt; and whose claim was, conse-
quently, superior to that of the Lancastrian family. Their
8. Give an account of the Wickliffites. — 9. Give an account of Henry's
invasion of France. What is related of the princess Catharine? — lO.
Whom did Henry appoint regent for England ? Whom for France ? What
was the issue of this great English invasion of France ? What was the
character of Henry VI. ? Whom did he marry ? What description of
person was she?— 11. How did Richard of York derive a claim to the
crown ?
1455.
WAR OF THE ROSES.
269
right had now descended to Richard, duke of York, through
his mother, the last of the descendants of Clarence. The op-
position to the queen and her ministry, had procured from par-
liament the appointment of this nobleman as regent, or protector
of the kingdom ; but the transient restoration of the king again
transferred the power to the queen's party. The Yorkists took
up arms, and a civil war began, which, for thirty years, deso-
lated the land. This was termed " the war of the roses," the
Lancastrian party assuming the red, and the Yorkists the white
rose. This war comprehends one of the most disastrous pe-
riods of English history. By repeated battles and executions,
the kingdom was deluged with blood, and some of the noblest
families in the realm were exterminated.
12. The first battle fought between the rival parties was at
St. Albans, where the Yorkists were triumphant. They ob-
tained possession of the person of the king, induced him to
grant a general pardon, and to reinstate the duke of York in
office. A change, however, was again effected by the manage-
ment of the court party, and York was dismissed by the king.
Three years elapsed before hostilities were renewed. The
peace-loving king made an effort to reconcile all differences.
With his whole court he went in procession to the cathedral of
St. Paul's, and at his desire, the duke of York walked with the
queen. But though peace was on their tongues, hatred was in
their hearts, and cabals and stratagems again led to war. A
battle was fought at Bloreheath, in Staffordshire, in which vic-
tory declared for the Lancastrians ; and the duke of York was
compelled to take refuge in Ireland.
13. Meanwhile the earl of Warwick, who was governor of
Calais, espoused the cause of Richard, and with an army landed
in Kent. Advancing towards the capital, his forces augmented.
He entered, and took possession of London, and of the person
of the king. A parliament was summoned, which decided that
Henry VI. should possess the crown during his life, but that the
duke of York should succeed him; and in the meantime, be
intrusted with the administration of the government. The
queen, with her young son, had retired into the north of the
kingdom, where she had gathered a considerable army. York
marched against her, but was defeated and slain at Wakefield-
green ; and his principal followers were taken and executed.
14. Edward, earl of March, the son of York, inherited
his title, and prosecuted his claim. He was victorious in a
battle fought between his forces and the queen's army, at St.
Albans. Margaret, who was now joined by her husband, re-
Middle Hist.
1459.
BLORE-
HEATH.
The red
rose party
prevail.
Earl of
Warwick.
1460.
WAKE-
FIELD.
York de-
feated and
slain.
Second battle
of ST. AL-
BANS.
Yorkists, or
white roses
victorious.
11. How did he come to be appointed regent? How did he lose his
power? What was the civil war which ensued called? What was the
character of this war? — 12. Where was the first battle between the rival
parties? What was its result ? What was attempted by the king? Re-
late the battle of Bloreheath. — 13. What success now attended the York
party ? Where did the tide of fortune change ? What was the result of
the battle ? — 14. Who was now the representative of the house of York ?
270
WARWICK, THE KING-MAKER.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VII.
TOW-
TON.
Yorkists
defeat
the Lan-
cas-
trians.
1464
HEX-
HAM.
York-
ists
again
defeat
queen
Marga-
ret.
The
York-
ists tri-
umph-
ant.
Edward
IV. of-
fends
earl
War-
wick by
marry-
ing the
widow
of Sir J.
Grey.
1471.
BAR-
NET.
The
queen's
party
defeat-
ed, and
War-
wick
slain.
tired into the north of England, where her greatest strength lay,
and Edward IV. was proclaimed king in London. The war
now raged with dreadful violence. The armies of Edward and
Margaret soon met near Towton, a few miles from York, where
was fought the most memorable battle which had yet occurred
during the contest. The forces of Edward amounted to 40,000,
while the Lancastrians numbered 60,000. The fight continued
at intervals during three days, and resulted in the entire dis-
comfiture of the Lancastrian army; and 36,000 Englishmen are
said to have fallen in that battle.
15. Margaret fled with her husband, and her son the young
prince, to seek friends in Scotland. She next sought aid from
Louis XI. of France, and after an absence of two years, returned
with a small body of French, which was augmented by her
Scottish allies. At the head of these forces, she again met her
enemies, but was defeated at Hexham near the Tyne, and, with
her husband and son, again compelled to flee. Henry, after
being a while secreted in the borders of Scotland, was made
prisoner, and confined in the tower. Margaret and the young
prince Edward, made their escape to the continent. The Lan-
castrians without a chief, and every where defeated and hum-
bled, were incapable of offering any effectual resistance, and
Scotland and France manifested a desire of reconciliation with
the ruling monarch of England.
16. Edward had now the misfortune, or the indiscretion, to
offend his most powerful adherent, the earl of Warwick; styled
the " king maker." While the earl was on the continent, ne-
gotiating a marriage between him and the princess of Savoy,
sister-in-law of Louis XL, Edward accidentally meeting with the
lady Elizabeth Grey, of the family of Wydeville, was so
pleased with her, that he privately married her, and soon pub-
licly acknowledged her as his queen. The earl of Warwick
highly resented this conduct, which interfered with the negotia-
tion in which he was engaged. The promotion of the queen's
family to places of honor and trust, still further alienated the
mind of this haughty noble, as well as others of the king's
former friends. They conspired against him, and Margaret and
Warwick, from being the most implacable of enemies, became
friends.
17. Warwick left Calais, of which he was governor ; landed
in England, and produced so general a revolt, that Edward was
obliged to flee to Holland. With the aid of the Flemings, how-
ever, he returned and encountered his enemy at Barnet near
London, where a battle was fought, in which the army of War-
wick was defeated, and himself left dead on the field. The
same day Margaret, with her French forces, arrived in England,
14:. Describe the course of the war through the two succeeding battles.
— 15. Relate the further misfortunes of Margaret. — 16. How did Edward
now offend the earl of Warwick ? What was the consequence of Warwick's
resentment, and that of other nobles ? — IT. Relate the battle of Barnet. Of
Tewksbury.
271
and another battle was fought at Tewksbury, where she was Mddle Hist-
entirely defeated. Her son, prince Edward, was made prisoner, period v.
and brutally murdered by some of the highest nobles in the chap. vir.
realm. This battle closed the bloody war, and while it secured s«-*<^^v-/
the crown to Edward, restored tranquillity, at least for a time, Sff'
to the kingdom. The husband of Margaret, Henry VI., who y™£_
had never been more than a nominal king, expired in the tower ists
soon after the battle of Tewksbury. His death has been charged p^an'.
upon Richard of Gloucester, the only surviving brother of the
king. The resolute and persevering, but unfortunate Margaret,
was kept for years a prisoner; but at length she was ransomed
by Louis XI., when she returned to the court of her father.
18. Edward next prepared to invade France. A treaty ad-
vantageous to England was the result ; for Louis XI. never suf-
fered his subjects to fight, when his own false promises could (9neof
avert a war. The profligacy of Edward, during the last years tresses"
of his reign, hastened his death. His son Edward, a youth of was
thirteen, was declared his successor ; but his immediate coro- Jane
nation was postponed through the intrigues of his villianous, ^hope_
hypocritical uncle, Richard of Gloucester. A large party of the risned
ancient nobility had manifested a jealousy of the rising fortunes ditcrAn
of the Wydevilles, the queen's relatives. Of this faction, Richard ^on-
now availed himself for the execution of his sinister designs.
On the death of his brother, he hastened to assume the title of
protector of the kingdom, Having made himself master of the
young king, he next lured, by fair pretences, his younger bro- S'f®**,'
ther, the duke of York, from the arms of his weeping mother, v.
He then removed all the nobles who were likely to prove an
obstacle to his usurpation. The earl of Rivers, and the Wy-
devilles, Lords Stanley and Hastings, were executed on the
same day, and without the form of trial.
19. The obsequious parliament then declared the young
princes illegitimate, and proclaimed Richard king. The two
royal boys, who were confined in the tower, now disappeared. ^.5
No inquiry was made concerning them, but all supposed that Richard
they were murdered by Richard's commands * The duke of "L
Buckingham, who had been an instrument of Richard's eleva- mostde-
tion, perceiving the general detestation with which his crimes ^the
inspired the nation, turned against him. Henry, earl of Rich- kings of
mond, of the family of Owen Tudor and the dowager queen of jj™|"
Henry V., was, on his mother's side, descended from John of
Gaunt. In the general destruction of the Lancastrian family,
* By the confessions of the assassins afterwards made, it appears that
these two lovely boys, of the ages of thirteen and eleven, were strangled in
their bed, as they were sleeping together, in a room in the tower, and their
bodies buried under the stairs. The wooden chest containing their remains
was afterwards discovered.
17. What became of Henry? Of Margaret and her son ?— 18. What
happened in relation to the invasion of France ? Relate what occurred in
regard to the succession. What measures did Richard take to make his
usurpation secure? — 19. What was the fate of the two princely boys?
What competitor for the crown waa now set up by the disaffected ?
272 THE TIME OF THE CABOTS.
Middle Hist, he remained the only surviving chief, and though he was now
period v. m exne on the continent, yet the Lancastrians formed a con-
chap. vni. spiracy to dethrone the usurper and confer on him the crown,
v-f-v^w' Richard detected the plot, seized the duke of Buckingham its
head, and executed him, with some of his accomplices. Having
defeated this design, he summoned a parliament, who acknow-
ledged his title to the crown ; to strengthen which, Richard took
measures (his wife being yet alive,) for marrying his niece,
Elizabeth, sister to the murdered princes.
f 1485. 20. Meanwhile, Henry of Richmond embarked from Harfleur
Bos- in Normandy, with 2,000 men, and landed at Milford-Haven in
Henry Wales, — where he was gladly received by the Welsh, many of
vii. de- whom joined his army. Richard had been energetic in his
Richard measures for repelling the expected invasion, but he could place
It|L'. no reliance upon his disaffected subjects, nor even depend upon
killed, the fidelity of those nobles who appeared in his cause. The
wown- adverse armies met at Bosworth-field, where the wicked usur-
ed upon per was defeated and slain. Henry was crowned on the field,
the field. an(j saiute(j kmg 0f England. The subsequent marriage of
Henry with Elizabeth, united the house of York with that of
Lancaster. Henry VII. is the founder of the dynasty of
Tudor.
fEiiza ^' Henry was SUDtle5 penetrating, — and vigorous in his mea-
bethTid sures for defeating the designs of his enemies. But the leading
a°happy feature of his character was avarice ; and to obtain money, he
life, for often stooped to falsehood and low artifice. During his reign
make5 the imposter Lambert Simmel appeared, pretending that he
badhus- was the young king Edward V., and afterwards, Perkin War-
beck set himself up for the duke of York. Marvellous accounts
were given of their escape from the tower, and many friends to
their cause appeared, but the imposture was at length detected,
Ameri- ^s reign is memorable as being the period of the discovery
ca disco- of America. Henry VII. was the sovereign under whose ban-
vered' ner that part of the continent which we inhabit, was discovered
by the Venetian captains, John and Sebastian Cabot.
CHAPTER VIII.
Spain and Portugal.
1. We have seen how Spain was conquered and occupied by
the Saracens, except the little territory of Jlsturias on its
19. Give some account of the duke of Buckingham. — 20. Where did
Henry land ? What battle soon followed ? What was the result of the
battle ? In the alliance between Henry VII. and Elizabeth of York, what
political object was answered ? — 21. What was Henry's character ? What
impostors were set up to personate the murdered princes ? Why is this reign
memorable to Americans ?
SPAIN PASSING FROM THE MAHOMETANS. 273
northern coast. Here the Christians were pent up in a moun- kiddie mst.
tainous region, and constantly in danger from their Mahometan period v.
foes. Want, difficulty, and danger, educated to hardihood and chap. via.
daring the Christian Spaniards, as similar circumstances did the y*-*'~s/~>**-'
first settlers of our own republic; and a new destiny was the TheSa-i
consequence of a renovation in character. The Saracens mean- of Spam |
time, under the mild and peaceful rule of the Ommiyades, cul- fjl™^1 ' *
tivated science and literature, — agriculture, navigation, and com- people
merce ; and precisely at the time when the rest of Europe was erf0p"~
in the deepest gloom of the dark ages, Saracenic Spain was most
enlightened. Averroes, of Cordova, made a translation of Aver-
Aristotle, and introduced it as a study into his native city, and J^ii
among the Moors of Africa. Algebra was invented, and arith-
metic much improved, in the Aiab or Saracen schools, while
many of the first nobles of Christendom could not even read. But
the Saracens became more and more luxurious and enervated.
At length they quarrelled among themselves ; while from the 1282<
north the hardy Asturians came down from the mountains, and To^°
took from them town after town, and province after province, sieged.
In 1282, the Castilians under Alphonso VI. and his great cap- -*«>S5
tain Roderigo Diaz de Bivar, the famous Cid, reached the Tagus, Toledo
and after a three years siege, took Toledo. taken.
2. The Saracens had applied for aid to their Mahometan
brethren of Morocco. The Moors came to their assistance and 1282-
stayed the progress of the Christians, by defeating them in a The^Moors
great battle, but their leader, Yussef, by perfidy and violence andSara-
seated himself upon the throne of the caliphs, and founded the awTcfiii?
dynasty of the Mmoravides. The Moorish kingdom of Grenada tians-
began in 1283. The Christians and Moors kept up a perpetual Maho- ~\
war, and though success varied — upon the whole the Christians met T*
gained ; until in 1450 the Moors were confined to a space not
much exceeding the present province of Grenada j but within EjJfjJJ
this they had many cities, and a dense and wealthy population.
Grenada, the capital, was embellished by costly structures, one
of which, the Jllhambra, was the most splendid palace in the 134S
world.
3. The Christian power in Spain was, for centuries after the
Saracen conquest, divided among many small independent sove-
reignties, which often made war upon each other; and but for
having had a common enemy in the Moors, their contests might
have been utterly destructive to themselves. By conquest, and
com-
pleted
in
Chap. VIII. — 1. What part of Spain was not conquered by the Saracens?
What was the condition of the Christian Spaniards, and what effect had it
on their character ? How in the meantime were the Saracens employed ?
What was done by Averroes ? What improvements in science were made
among the Arabs? What effect in regard to their warlike character
did these pursuits produce ? By whom was Toledo taken from the Sa-
racens ? — 2. To whom did they apply for assistance ? What was done by
the Moors ? What dynasty was established by them? At what time did
the Moorish kingdom of Grenada begin ? What in 1450 was its size ? What
its capital ? Give some account of the Alhambra. — 3. How was it with the
Christian power in Spain ?
35
274
HENRY OF TRASTAMARA.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VIII.
The Black
Prince,
with more
politeness
than morali-
ty, takes his
part.
136®.
Henry of
Trastamara.
1450.
(Castile, or
Castilla, so
called from
the numer-
ous castles
of the
nobles.
1169.
intermarriages, some of the provinces at length attained pre-
eminence. The kingdom of Castile, as comprising Asturias,
was looked up to, as the most venerable. One of the kings,
Ferdinand III., united Leon to Castile, and conquered from the
Moors the cities of Cordova and Seville. James I. of Arragon,
a cotemporary sovereign, made the conquest of the Balearic
isles, and of the kingdoms of Valencia and Murcia. Alphonso
XI., of Castile, conquered Algesiras.
4. Alphonso was succeeded by his son Peter I., whose enor-
mities procured him the appellation of " the Cruel." Henry
or Trastamara, his natural brother, was driven into rebellion
by his severities, and by apprehension for his own safety. The
French monarch, Charles V., enraged by Peter's murder of his
queen, Blanche of Bourbon, espoused the interest of Henry,
and sent to his aid Du Guesclin, at the head of a considerable
body of French soldiers. Peter was driven from his kingdom,
and took refuge in France, with Edward, the Black Prince, then,
governing the English principality of Aquitaine. This prince
made it a point of honor to reinstate his suppliant guest ; and
at the head of an army, he advanced into Castile, defeated the
French and Castilians, and restored Peter to the throne. But
his cruelties soon produced another rebellion. Du Guesclin,
who had been made prisoner by the English, was ransomed,
and returned with a recruited army to the aid of Henry. The
tyrant, now abandoned by the Black Prince, soon lost his crown
and his life, and Henry of Trastamara was made king.
The descendants of this monarch, in two distinct lines, ruled
the separate kingdoms of Castile and Arragon till the middle of
the fifteenth century.
5. The peninsula was at this period divided between the Moor-
ish empire of Grenada and four Christian kingdoms, each under
its own sovereign. 1st, Castile, which reached from the bay
of Biscay to the Mediterranean. 2d, Arragon, which embraced
Arragon proper, and the provinces between that and the Medi-
terranean. 3rd, Portugal, the ancient Lusitania, made a king-
dom in 1139, when Alphonso defeated the Saracens in a great
battle, took Lisbon, and gained by conquest four of its six pro-
vinces. The 4th kingdom of the peninsula was the Pyrenean
district of Navarre. The early internal police of Castile pre-
sents much popular liberty. The first legislative body, or
cortes, in which the commoners were represented, was held
3. How did some of the provinces obtain pre-eminence ? Which was
looked up to by all the others, and on what account ? What union and
conquests were effected by Ferdinand III. ? What by James I. of Arra-
gon ? What by Alphonso XI. of Castile ? Observe on the map what
must now be the extent of Castile. What of Arragon. — 4. Who was the
successor of Alphonso XI. ? What enemies did his cruelties raise up
against him ? Who took his part ? Was it right and wise to shed blood to
force a bad king upon unwilling subjects ? Did Peter long keep the crown ?
What parts of Spain were ruled by the descendants of Henry of Trasta-
mara ? — 5. Between which kingdoms was Spain divided in the middle of the
fifteenth century ?
THE SANTA HERMANDAD. 275
in 1169. But it was only the people of the cities who had Miili^ Hist.
this privilege. The nomination of the one representative to period v.
which each city was entitled, was at first vested in the sepa- CH^P- cu-
rate householders, but afterwards in the municipality. These x-^~\/~*«w/
representatives assembled in the same chamber with those of
the nobles and clergy, but they could, of themselves, pass laws (See Pres-
binding on the cities, without the concurrence of the other ^an^ and"
orders. This union of the cities afterwards became still more Isabella.")
intimate, when the Saxta Hermaxdad, or u Holy Brotherhood,''
was established. The cities, by this union, bound themselves The cities of
by solemn covenant to stand by each other, against all invasion
of rights. The Castilians learned from the Moors trade and
commerce, and they early made laws to foster their fine breed
of sheep. The " Holy Brotherhood" was sanctioned by the
monarchs as a balance against the nobles, who owned the coun-
try, and while they were exempt from taxes, they held the pea-
santry in servitude. Some of them could bring large armies
into the field, and their revenue far exceeded that of the sove-
reign. The power of the sovereign was too limited, and was
ill defined, — hence was greater or less, according to the abilities
of the monarch. He, however, held the balance between the
cities and the nobles. Another power, that of the clergy, was
then great, and was still rising.
6. The cities belonging to the kingdom of Arragon, taking
advantage of their maritime position, fostered a free and com-
mercial spirit, and possessed a considerable navy. Arragon, it J~Jj* set
appears, had a written constitution in the ninth century, by the upper
virtue of which the monarchy was elective, the electors being Arrajo".
twelve noblemen. The aristocracy, calling themselves "the
Union," already overbalanced the other powers ; and from one of
the kings, Alphonso III., they obtained two writings, called the
" Privileges of the Union," by which they mastered the monarchs,
and oppressed the people. Peter IV. rose against them, defeated
them at Epila, and assembling a cortes at Saragossa, he pro- Jp^f '
duced the conveyance of the " Privileges," and cutting it, while Peter iv.
he wounded his hand with his dagger, he let fall the drops of dene0abtieshe
his blood upon the paper- ■' This writing." said he, u Avhich
has caused so much blood to be shed, shall be washed out in the
blood of a king." Peter then made laws, which secured in a
great degree the peace of the realm, paying great regard to the
regulation of the judiciary. The cortes was composed of four
branches — 1st. the higher nobilitv : 2d, the inferior, with the The nobility
i-i o i i • • » i i -i mi may, if they
knights; dd, the commons, or citizens; 4th, the clergy. Ine choose, vote
higher nobility might send their substitutes ; and what is par- by Pro*y-
5. At what time was the first Cortes? Of whom was it composed?
What was the Santa Hermandad ? Why was this sanctioned by the mon-
archs ? What was the condition of the nobles ? What is said of the
power of the king? Of the clergy? — 6. What was the condition of the
cities of Arragon ? How early had Arragon a written constitution ? What
is related of the nobles ? What of Peter IV. ? Of what branches was the
cortes of Arragon composed ?
276
ISABELLA.
PERIOD V.
CHAI1. VIII.
Arra-
gon.
1458.
John II.
Castile.
Henry
IV.
1454.
Alphon-
so.
1469.
Isabella.
Henry IV.
dies.
Isabella
proclaimed.
14T4.
8he regu-
iates the af-
fairs of Cas-
tile, which
had suffered
from mis-
rule.
ticularly worthy of remark, haronial heiresess might also vote
in the cortes by proxy ; thus was extended to females a prin-
ciple for which men have so often contended, that taxation and
representation should go together.
7. John II., of Arragon, married for his first wife, Blanche,
the heiress of Navarre ; but with the condition that her children
should inherit that crown. On her death he married Joan
Henri que z, the daughter of a nobleman, a woman of high
ambition, who became the mother of Ferdinand. Joan
wrought on the mind of her husband against the children of
Blanche, to the prejudice of their rights of succession in the
kingdom of Navarre ; and after a life of trouble, Carlos, the
eldest, sank to an untimely grave. Navarre went to his sister
Leonora, who had married the Count de Foix. Ferdinand, now
the only son, was acknowledged the heir of Arragon. In Cas-
tile Henry IV. rendered himself odious by his effeminate and
voluptuous life. His subjects rebelled, deposed him, and pro-
claimed his brother, Alphonso. Alphonso dying, Henry was
compelled by his subjects to sign a treaty, declaring his noble
sister, Isabella, heiress to the throne.
8. Isabella was possessed of a saintly modesty, of great fore-
sight and prudence — and, though but eighteen, she had already
given indications, not only of unswerving rectitude, but of a
dauntless spirit.* In person she was majestic and beautiful.
Of the many suitors for her hand, she chose Ferdinand of Ar-
ragon. By their union the two principal kingdoms of Spain
were united ; and thus that country was eventually raised, to be
one of the most powerful monarchies of the world. By the
articles of the marriage contract, the rights of the sovereignty
of Castile were wholly vested in the queen; and through her
life she preserved them entire. Her first care, on her full acces-
sion to the throne, was to heal the wounds of her kingdom,
which had long been bleeding by civil war, misrule, and anarchy.
To curb the lawless arrogance of the great nobles, she revived
and cherished the " Santa Hermandad," and committed to regu-
* Isabella, at the age of thirteen, had been trafficked away by her brother
to the king of Portugal. She refused to marry him, alleging, though so
young, the sound reason that the infantas of Castile could not be disposed of
in marriage without the consent of the nobles. At sixteen her brother gave
notice that she must marry an aspiring nobleman, every way her inferior,
and the object of her dislike. She shut herself up, wept, prayed, and took
her resolution — then said to her female friend, ' ' God will not permit it,
neither will I," showing a dagger, which she kept in her bosom, vowing
to plunge it into the heart of the unworthy man if he dared to approach her.
His death saved her the trial.
T. What information do you get from this paragraph of John II. ? Of
Blanche? Of Joan Henriques ? Of Carlos? Of Leonora? Of Ferdi-
nand ? What is related of Henry IV. of Castile ? On what occasion was
Isabella declared heiress of the first monarchy of Spain ? — 8. What was
the character and appearance of Isabella ? Whom did she marry ? What
was the consequence to the Spanish monarchy of this connexion ? What
rights were secured to her by her marriage contract ? Did she preserve
them ? What was her first care on fully possessing the throne-? What
measure did she take to curb the lawlessness of the nobles ?
THE INQUISITION.
277
lar officers of their body the police of the country. She rode
on horseback from place to place, and with the most fearless
intrepidity superintended the administration of the laws, and the
punishment of crime : and no rank or wealth could shield the
offender from her even-handed justice. Thus were internal
peace and confidence restored, the nobles checked, the royal
authority established, and the arts of peace so cultivated, that
wealth and plenty took the place of poverty and want.
9. One dark shade falls upon the lovely character of Isabella —
she was superstitious. The deep piety of her youthful mind
had been tampered with by her confessor, Torque mad a, and
she had been wrought up to make the promise, that if she ever
came to the crown, she would K extirpate heresy." Through
this promise, a reluctant consent was wrung from her, by her
husband, and the priests, to sanction the Inquisition; which,
although carried to its greatest enormity in Spain, began in
France. Innocent III. had, by his influence, sent crusading
armies, who had swept through the south of France, putting
to the sword tens of thousands of the Waldenses and Albi-
genses. Cases occurred, where some court seemed to the
fanatics necessary to decide whether persons apprehended were,
or were not heretics, and whether heretical principles might not
be charged upon some who went at large. At Toulouse, Inno-
cent established such a tribunal, with inquisitorial powers. The
Dominican friars, with their founder, Dominic, at their head,
were the first inquisitors. The institution was soon adopted in
Germany and Italy. The use of the Scriptures was at the same
time forbidden. In Germany the Inquisition was soon and
finally discontinued.
10. The Inquisition in Spain was first established at Seville.
Pope Sixtus VI. sent over a bull to authorize it, at the request
of three ecclesiastics, of whom the principal was Alphonso
de Ojeda, Dominican prior of St. Paul's, in that city. The
sovereign united in this request. The pope would, by means
of this tribunal, fix his dominion by such an utter subjugation
of the spirits of men, that they, and all they possessed, would
be his, whenever he wanted their property or their services ;
and his agents shared the dominion, and the spoils. Of the
latter Ferdinand was to have a large share. The Jews existed
in great numbers in Spain, and had much wealth, which they
often foolishly paraded. The jealousy of the nobles and the
cupidity of the king were thus excited. To make them hated, so
Middle Hist.
(Paramo of
Sicily traces
the Inquisi-
tion from
the Almigh-
ty down
through the
patriarchs
Moses, Ne-
buchadnez-
zar, and
king
David !)
1209.
Inquisition
begins.
Nov. 1,
1478-
The pope's
bull autho-
rizing the
Inquisition
received.
8. For what purpose did she fearlessly ride from place to place ? What
objects did her arrangements and energy effect ? — 9. What blemish is there
on the lovely character of queen Isabella ? Who was Torquemada ? What
did he lead her to sanction ? To what time and place is this tribunal
traced ? What led to it in the first instance ? Into what countries was it
carried ? In what discontinued ? — lO. At what place in Spain was the In-
quisition first established ? What pope gave his sanction ? By whom was
the petition for it made ? In what respect would such a tribunal give power
to the pope ? What is said of the Jews, and of their conduct in regard to
their wealth ?
278
BARBAROUS TREATMENT OF THE JEWS.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. VIII.
(The Jews by
false wit-
ness sacri-
ficed the Sa-
vior, by
false wit-
ness they
perish.)
At Seville
the Inquisi-
tion esta-
blished,
Sept. 17,
1480-
1481.
Jan. 2.
Customs of
the Jews
made the
ground of
their de-
struction.
Nov. 4, 298
had been sa-
crificed.
1483.
The modern
Spanish In-
quisition es-
tablished
under Tor-
quemada.
that their destruction should not cause u an uproar among the
people ;" witnesses, whom we cannot doubt were false, were
brought, who testified that they were in the practice of sacri-
ficing Christian children at their feasts. On one occasion,
twenty -five knights swore that at their passover they had cru-
cified a Christian boy. But in this age falsehood, as well
as fighting for the church, was esteemed meritorious service.
Yet the common people did not know this. They believed
the reports, and persecuted the Jews unto death throughout
all Europe. In Spain they had flourished ; their genius had
aided the Saracens in the revival of letters, and having remained
among the Spaniards after the conquest, their industrial pursuits
had made them, not only the wealthiest subjects of the mon-
archy, but the creditors of most of the improvident nobles. To
destroy the Jews would be to cancel these debts, and to con-
vert their property to the use of the church and the state. For
these objects the Inquisition was first brought into Spain. Its
office, called by a misnomer little short of profane, the " Holy
Office," was opened at Seville, Sept. 17, 1480.
11. The inquisitors immediately published an edict, requiring
" all persons to aid in apprehending and accusing all such as
they might know or suspect to be guilty of heresy." All modes
of accusation, even anonymous, were encouraged, and the in-
quisitors, of whom Ojeda was chief, had soon so many vic-
tims, that they removed their sittings from the monastery of St.
Paul's to the fortress of Siana, without the city. Jews were
convicted and punished when it was found that they wore bet-
ter clothes on Saturday, the Jewish sabbath, than on other days ;
if they turned the face of a dying man to the wall, or used
warm water in the post-mortem ablution. Four days after the
first sitting, six victims were consumed by fire ; and before the
end of November three hundred, save two, had been sacrificed.
The Inquisition sat upon the dead as well as the living, and
condemning those who were in their graves, their menials dug
them up and burned the decaying corpses. But it was the
wealthy, whether living or dead, who were condemned ; and the
confiscation of their property, was a well remembered part of
their condemnation.
12. Seville by the hand of divine justice lost 15,000 inha-
bitants by a plague. The inquisitors removed their tribunal for
a time, and went on as before. Two thousand were burned
in Andalusia within the year. The pope, on the representation
of the Jews, rebuked the inquisitors; but he afterwards exerted
himself to quiet the uneasy scruples of Isabella, and proceeded
10. What measures were taken to make the people desire their de-
struction ? — 11. What edict was published? What kind of accusations
were received ? On what sort of facts were Jews condemned and executed ?
How many were burnt from Jan. 6th to Nov. 4th ? What became of the
property of the persons condemned ? What strange and shocking trials are
related?— 12. To what place, and on what occasion did the tribunal re-
move ? What double-dealing appears on the part of the pope ?
THE SPANISH INQUISITION. 279
to invest Torque mada with the office of inquisitor-general Middle H*<~
of Castile and Jlrragon, with full powers to form a new period v.
constitution. From this period is reckoned the origin of the chap. vm.
terrible Spanish Inquisition. During the reign of Ferdinand v-**~v-w/
and Isabella, there were in different parts of the two kingdoms Tfae ^^
thirteen different branches, or inferior courts. "auto de
13. The new constitution provided that on the first Sundays fe,fJ^ °f
in Lent, edicts should be proclaimed, ordering all persons who 1584,
knew or suspected any to be infected with heresy, to lodge in- at Seville,
formation against them ; — ministers must refuse the consolatory
offices of religion to any one, however true himself, who failed
to inform, though it should be against a parent, a child, or a
wedded companion. All accusations, signed or unsigned, were
admitted — the names of the witnesses being mentioned, their
depositions were taken down by a secretary of the office. The
unconscious victim was seized in some solitary place by armed
menials of the Inquisition, and conveyed to its dark subterra- The unfair-
neons prison ; — his family and friends knew only that he had inquisitorial
disappeared, but they might not inquire, or even weep with trlbunal-
safety. In his dungeon the prisoner saw only spies of the tri- its utter se-
bunal 5 and all its servants were bound by oath and by fear to a crecy.
secrecy not to be violated by a look. When at length called
before the inquisitors, the accused neither saw his accuser nor
was suffered to know him or his witnesses. If he refused to
confess his guilt he was put to the torture, by rack or fire, in its diaboii-
the depth of vaults where no pitying ear, save God's, could hear ca crue y'
his cries. If pain extorted from him the confession of his he-
retical opinions, it was expected, if he survived, that he would (Torque-
repeat this confession the next day. Should he refuse, his mada eight
% . o -, . , % n years mof-
aching form was again subjected to the torture, now still more rice. 100,000
agonizing. Should he, through all this, aver his innocence, it ^^jfo8'
was not even then considered as established ; and nothing was burnt, the
before, him but a painful death, or a life of poverty — with a body SSufied
mutilated, and a character branded with an infamy, which .by law and dis-
was to descend, — blighting his posterity.
14. In the year of the discovery of America, Ferdinand and Isa-
bella were persuaded to pass an edict to banish all the Jews who 1490
would not consent to receive baptism. Great was now the distress About
of these children of Israel as they passed from the pleasant land 1^JJ^JJrs
of their birth. Tens of thousands perished with famine,and the
hardships of the change from luxury to homeless beggary. They
scattered to different countries of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
15. To the conquest of the Moorish infidels in the south,
Ferdinand and Isabella had turned, though with different motives,
their united attention. Muley Abul Hacem, the sovereign of
Grenada, began the war by taking the Spanish fortress of Za-
12. What is regarded as the commencement of'the modern Spanish Inquisi-
tion ? — 1 3. For what, respecting accusations, did Torquemada's constitution
provide? Describe the unfair and cruel proceedings of the Inquisition.. —
14-. Give an account of the banishment of the Jews. — 15. To what did the
sovereigns of Castile and Arragon now turn their attention?
280
THE CONQUEST OF GRENADA.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IX.
14 SI.
The war
with the
Moors be-
gins with
the taking
of Zahara.
(Hospitals
for the sick
and wound-
ed, the in-
vention of
Isabella.)
1492.
Ends by the
capitulation
of Grenada.
hara. The Spaniards retaliated by capturing Mhama. The
Moors, destined to destruction, did for their enemies more than
half their work by intestine divisions. Muley Abul Hacem
quarrelling with Zorayda, his chief sultana, the intrepid woman
tied together scarfs and veils and delivered herself and her child-
ren, by descending from a high tower upon this uncertain sup-
port. The people, aroused at her tale of oppression, expelled
Abul Hacem, and proclaimed Boabdil, his son and Zorayda's.
The expelled sovereign was received at Malaga; and thus the
kingdom became divided against itself.
16. The Spaniards presented the new spectacle of moving on
with the united force of the two kingdoms, headed by their united
sovereigns ; — Ferdinand commanding the armies in person, and
declaring, when amidst peril and exposure he was told that his
head could do more than his hand, " that when his men were, for
his cause, in danger, he could not stop to calculate chances ;" —
and Isabella in the meantime taking charge of the finances, and
of the whole quarter-master's department ; especially attending
to the sick and wounded, and introducing, in this respect, im-
provements in military science. She was ever hovering on the
confines of the war, and when the hearts of the men were ready
to fail, they sent for her to come to the camp ; and she came
like a guardian spirit, infusing hope and courage, and dispelling
fear. " Isabella," says Mr. Prescott, her eloquent historian, " may
be regarded as the soul of this war." It was terminated by the
taking of Grenada in 1492, the same year in which Columbus,
under Isabella's patronage, discovered the Western continent.
CHAPTER IX.
Italy.
1266.
Italian re-
publics.
Four
clusters.
The capitals
were: of the
1st, Milan,
2d, Verona,
3d, Bologna,
and 4th,
Florence.
1. Italy was at this period divided between, — 1st, the repub-
lics in the northern and central parts,— 2d, the temporal sove-
reignty of the pope, and 3d, the kingdom of Naples. The re-
publics which occupied the northern parts of Italy may be
divided into four clusters. The first was composed of the
cities of central Lombardy, of which Milan was the principal,
and included Milan, Cremona, Pavia, Brescia, Bergamo, Parma,
Placenza, Mantua, Lodi, and Alexandria. These were the ori-
ginal seats of the liberty of the Italian cities. In the second
15. Give an account of the royal family of Grenada and their divisions.
What division ruined the Moors ? — 16. What spectacle does the Spanish his-
tory at this time present ? What does Prescott say of Isabella ? How, and
when was the Moorish war closed ?
Chap. IX. — 1. How was Italy at this period divided? Into what clus-
ters were the republics divided ?
THE ITALIAN REPUBLICS.
281
division may be placed Verona, Vicenza, Padua, and Tre- Mddle Hist-
viso. The cities of Romagna, of which Bologna and Ferrara period v.
were of most consequence, composed a third cluster, to which CHAP- Ix«
may be added Modena. A fourth, comprised the cities of Tus- v^~v~>**''
cany, of which Florence and Pisa were the chief. Besides
these, were the two maritime republics of Genoa and Venice.
These cities did not all at once throw off their allegiance to the
empire, or adopt a republican government. Milan took the
lead.
2. The disorders of the German empire during the eleventh
century, enabled the citizens of the Italian cities to choose their
own magistrates, and to take a share in public deliberations. As
these cities increased in wealth and strength, a residence in them t^owoffthe
became a desirable refuge from the dangers, in which the disor- yoke of their
dered state of affairs placed the rural gentry. The nobility of con(*uerors-
the country were themselves oppressed by the cities, and glad
to take refuge in them ; where, as they were privileged with
citizenship, they could attain the power of directing the govern-
ment. As their strength increased, the desire of extending their The reasons
power, and the limits of their territories, increased also ; this leasing"
produced encroachments upon the small towns, and upon the strengthand
territories of the country nobility. Early in the twelfth century, prospen y'
a war was carried on between Milan and Lodi, in which the
latter was subjected to the former. Wars continued to be
prosecuted between many of the cities.
3. Meanwhile Frederic Barbarossa, of Germany, attempted to
regain his dominion in Italy ; which, though still acknowledged, * 1^2.
existed but in name. Availing himself of the war between Milan Barbarossa
and Lodi, and of the jealousies felt by many of the cities to- ,"2^,
wards the former place, Frederic attacked the towns in de-
pendence upon Milan. After two invasions of Italy, Milan
itself was compelled by famine to capitulate. Frederic held
a diet at Roncaglia, where he defined the imperial rights over
the cities, appointed magistrates, called Podesta,
justice, and abolished the office of consuls, who were chosen
by the people. The Milanese, irritated at this tyranny, as soon
as the emperor had withdrawn his army, renewed the war. He
returned, destroyed Crema, a dependent of Milan, then laid
siege to Milan, which, subdued by famine, surrendered. The
citizens were compelled to disperse themselves to four villages
a few miles distant, while their habitations were razed to the es roye '
ground. The misery of the cities of Lombardy was now com-
to
ct
the Italian
states.
o administer «SSSJS"
vent the
cities from
defending
themselves.
Milan
1. Show on the map the location of each city of the first cluster. Of the
second. The third. The fourth. What maritime republics were there,
and how situated ? — 2. At what period did these cities begin to disregard the
German power, and perform acts of sovereignty? Did these cities usurp
power over the surrounding country ? What did the nobles find it most for
their interest to do? Did the cities agree among themselves? What ex-
ample of a contest is given ? — 3. What was done by Frederic Barbarossa ?
What regulations were made by the diet ? What was done by the Milanese ?
What next by the emperor ? What was now the condition of Milan and the
other Lombard cities ?
36
282
THE MEDICI.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IX.
Milan
rebuilt.
11T6.
The Lom-
bard league
defeat Fre-
deric Barba-
rossa.
1183.
Peace of
Constance.
146®.
Liberty of
the Floren-
tine republic
subverted
by the
Medici.
plete. Even those which had enlisted in the service of the
emperor, felt that they had sacrificed their liberties to their jea-
lous divisions.
4. The emperor met with a repulse at Verona, against which
he had next carried his arms. The spirit of liberty revived;
a secret league was formed among the Lombard cities, termed
the Lombard league, by which they pledged themselves to mu-
tual assistance in defence of their common rights, for a period
of twenty .years. Milan, by their united efforts, was quickly
rebuilt, and the confederates prepared to withstand the arms of
Frederic, whose strength had been reduced by. a contest with
pope Alexander III., during which, in laying siege to Rome, he
lost a large part of his army by pestilence. The war continued
many years without any decisive action, until, in the battle of
Leganoyihe confederates obtained a complete victory. Frede-
ric escaped from the field in disguise. By the mediation of
Venice, a truce of six years was agreed upon. After this, the
peace of Constance was concluded, by which the Lombard re-
publics were established in their former rights. The league
was renewed ; but unfortunately, no constitution for a perma-
nent federal union was formed.
5. During the reign of Frederic II., these republics were
plunged into another protracted war, after which they became
entirely emancipated from the empire. The liberties of the peo-
ple were, however, gradually sacrificed to the ambition of the
aristocracy. Of all the Italian nobles, the Medici of Florence
make the most distinguished figure in history. The historian
Sismondi represents them as a bad family, — the selfish, artful,
unprincipled, and heartless destroyers of their country's liber-
ties.* They owed their popularity to their wealth, liberality,
and taste in the fine arts. Cosmo de Medici, a man of plebeian
origin, the founder of the family, died in 1464. His grandson,
Lorenzo de Medici, surnamed " the Magnificent," and the
most distinguished for his patronage of the fine arts, died 1492.
The sovereign power in Florence, after some attempts to restore
the republic, became hereditary in this family.
6. The founder of the family of Sforza was, in 1409, a pea-
sant of Romagna, of prodigious strength of body, and great
courage. He gave himself to military pursuits, revived the an-
* The idea given of the family character by Sismondi is confirmed by
that of the two queens of France, Catharine de Medici, the instigator of the
massacre of St. Bartholomew, and Mary, wife of Henry IV., and by that of
Giovanni de Medici, son of Lorenzo, who as pope Leo X., by his abuses of
the pontifical power, drove Martin Luther to set up the standard of reforma-
tion; also by that of Clement VII. , who was the nephew of Lorenzo.
4:. As the misery of the cities began with their disunion, what happened
when they again united ? Give an account of the battle of Legano. By
what peace where the cities established in their former rights ? What was
renewed, and what was unfortunately omitted ? — 5. What happened in the
reign of Frederic II. ? When did the republics become independent of Ger-
many ? What enemy had their liberties after this ? Which of all the noble
families did the most to destroy the liberties of the people 1 Give an account
of this family. (See note also.)
RIENZI. 283
cient system of tactics, and adapting it to later times, became jgjg Hist.
considered a distinguished teacher of the art of war, and after- period v.
wards a great captain. His son, Francesco Sforza, exceeded chap, ix,
his father in fame and talents, and at length made himself of so v-* *"V^«'
much importance in the perpetual wars of the times, that he
married a daughter of Visconti, the last duke of Milan of that
name. On his death, Sforza contrived, by arts which soiled his
fair fame, and by the aid of his friend Cosmo de Medici, to ob-
tain the sovereignty of Milan, which continued for a considera-
ble time in his family.
7. The temporal sovereignty or the pope was at this
time fully established over the dominions belonging to the Ro-
man see. The emperor Rodolph, of Germany, giving up his
claim, the pope now held the relation to Italy formerly claimed -anm**
by the emperor ; but the city of Rome itself often revolted from sovereignty
his government. The remembrance of the glory of their an- ofthe P°Pe-
cestors at times enkindled the spirit of freedom in the breasts
of the degenerate Romans ; and it had often burst forth in resist-
ance to the power of the pope. Several times the "holy father"
was expelled from the city. During the residence of the popes
at Avignon in France, no authority of sufficient power existed
at Rome to curb the licentious citizens- and disorders of every
kind were frequent. At different periods, individuals arose who
roused the popular feeling by eloquent harangues, in which they
depicted the blessings of liberty, and recounted the glorious ^ego^
names of the ancient republic. One of these orators, Arnold Arnold of
of Brescia, not only denounced the corruptions ofthe clergy, Bresci.
but advocated boldly the principles of civil liberty. He was
banished by Innocent II., who branded his doctrine as the " he-
resy of the politicians." He was subsequently recalled to Rome,
and burned at the stake.
8. A century after, Nicholas di Jrienzi conceived the vast
project of uniting the several states of Italy into a federative re-
public, and of restoring Rome to its ancient greatness, as the
head of the confederacy. He was learned in the antiquities of
the city, and his enthusiasm for his country gave him an irre-
sistible eloquence, while he explained to the listening crowds, 1346.
the ancient memorials of the glory of their fathers. The multi- ins^f|g*°n
tude caught the inspiration, and determined to re-establish the Nicholas di
old republican form of government. Rienzi was made tribune ienz *
of the people ; but under this title he was in fact sovereign of
Rome. At first he administered the government with the strict-
est equity, but by degrees he became spoiled by prosperity ;
and manifested neither the virtues which had given him the con-
fidence of the people, nor the talents for a successful usurper.
The nobles whom he bad opposed, regained their ascendency
6. Who was the founder of the Sforza family? Who was his son ? — T.
What was the condition of the pope in regard to his temporal sovereignty ?
What in regard to the people of Rome ? What occurred during the resi-
dence of the popes at Avignon ? Give an account of Arnold of Brescia.—
8. Give the history of Nicholas di Rienzi.
284
NAPLES AND SICILY UNITED.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V,
CHAP. IX.
1261.
Genoa
flourishes-
obtains
Pera.
Venice
grows rich
by the
crusades.
Venice at-
tains her
highest ele^
vation in
the 13th
century.
1166.
House of
Normandy
unite Na-
ples and
Sicily.
House of
Swabia.
and re-established the authority of the pope. Rienzi, banished
from the city, wandered among the mountains of Hungary and
Bohemia, and was at length made prisoner and sent to Innocent
VI., at Avignon. He not now fearing him, sent him to quell
popular disturbances in Rome. No longer buoyed up by youth-
ful hope, and virtuous enthusiasm, Rienzi no more possessed
the power of swaying the multitude by his eloquence; and
though at first the populace received him with marks of affec-
tion, they, after four months, barbarously took his life.
9. Genoa, in the beginning of the thirteenth century, had
attained considerable importance, and its commerce was in a
flourishing state. Its prosperity was greatly increased by the
settlement of Pera, in the suburbs of Constantinople, which
the Genoese obtained from the Greeks, in reward of their ser-
vices in the recovery of that city. Genoa maintained frequent
wars with Pisa, and with Venice, its rivals in trade. Its internal
history is marked by frequent contests between its leading fa-
milies. After several changes of government, it submitted to
that of a duke, or doge, and was finally placed under the pro-
tection of the king of France. The assistance which the re-
public of Venice had given to the crusaders in conveying
them to Palestine, was rewarded by a rich commerce with the
east. But the commencement of its prosperity and splendor
was in the thirteenth century. Having sustained an important
part in the conquest of Constantinople by the Latins, it obtain-
ed three-eighths of the city, and of the provinces, as a reward.
The government of Venice was administered by a doge, or
duke, who, as early as the eighth century, exercised the power
of a king. Subsequently his authority was limited, and at
length it very little exceeded that of the other nobles ; and the
government became, in the thirteenth century, an oppressive
aristocracy. In the fourteenth century, Venice was engaged in
wars with her neighbors, which proving generally successful, her
prosperity increased. During the fifteenth century, the most
splendid period in her annals, she extended her dominion over
Padua and Verona, and obtained from the duke of Milan, the
city of Vicenza.
10. KINGDOM OF NAPLES.— After the extinction of
Robert Guiscard's posterity, the son and successor of his brother,
Roger of Sicily, added to his dominions the Norman possessions
of Apulia and Calabria; and subdued the republics of Naples
and Amalfi, and the city of Capua. In this new kingdom of
Naples he was succeeded by his son, William the Good,
the last of the Norman princes. At his death, the crown
of Naples and Sicily passed to Henry VI. of Germany, son of
9. Give an account of Genoa. What part of the spoils of Constantino-
ple did Venice receive at the time it was taken by the Latins ? What is
related of its government ? What was the most flourishing period of Ve-
nice ? What places were conquered ? — lO. What prince united Naples
and the adjoining provinces to Sicily ? Who was the last king of the Nor-
man line ?
THE GREEK EMPIRE IN DECAY. 285
Frederic Barbarossa, who had married Constance, aunt of Wil- Middle Hist.
ham. The German princes continued upon the throne of Na- period v.
pies, until at length the pope, who was opposed to them, offered chap. ix.
the kingdom to Charles of Anjou, brother of Louis JX. of ^*~v~'w
France — who led thither an army and enforced his claim. Man- HJJ® J °f
fred, the last of the German princes, was slain. The Neapo- The German
litans having now their capital made the seat of an extensive prl"fetshheead
empire, were in the French interest; but the Sicilians being re- Gueiphs.
garded by them but an appendage, and treated with insult and
indignity, they rose upon the French, and perpetrated the horrid
massacre of the " Sicilian Vespers."
11. The people now placed upon the throne Peter III., of House of
Arragon, who had married Constance, the daughter of Manfred. Arra§on-
A bloody war succeeded, in which Philip of France supported
the pretensions of the house of Anjou. James I., the son of
Peter, who had succeeded him on the throne of Arragon, de-
sirous of peace, renounced his claims upon Sicily, in favor of
the French ; but the Sicilians, unwilling to submit to French
domination, placed his brother Frederic upon the throne. The king-
From this period, we find the kingdom of Naples a subject of pies a bone
perpetual contention, between the rival princes of France and °Jjo°n{;|™~
Spain. The house of Anjou always maintained their claim, tween the
and had their " titular kings" of Naples ; but the house of Arra- £rranCcee\0nfd
gon held the actual authority; and an illegitimate branch of the Spain.
family was upon the throne at the close of this period.
12. On the recovery of Constantinople from the Latins, Mi- 1261.
chael PaljEOLogus, to secure himself in possession of the MiSfo6gu^
throne he had usurped, deprived of his sight and banished
John Lascaris, the heir of the crown. The crimes of which
Michael was thus guilty, drew upon him the anger of the
patriarch Arsenius, who excommunicated him ; and stirred up
a powerful faction in the empire. Michael was succeeded by 12S2-
his son Andronicus. The Catalans, who had served in the AndromcU3
Sicilian wars, at their close swarmed into the Greek empire in
quest of plunder. Still more disastrous to the nation were the Tne empire
civil wars waged between the emperor Andronicus, and his invaded by
grandson of the same name, whose dissolute life induced him niards from
to look for another successor. Twice the civil war was inter- Catalonia,
rupted, and again renewed ; until at length, after seven years, 132©.
the younger Andronicus entered the capital triumphant. The Andronicus
aged emperor abdicated the crown, which the younger seized. IL
He was the slave of intemperance and debauchery. He carried
war into Asia, but found himself unable to cope with the Otto-
10. What family, or house, then governed Naples ? What did the pope
to oppose these princes in respect to Naples ? What house succeeded that
of Swabia in Naples ? How did the different parts of the kingdom stand
affected to the French? — 11. Who was called to the throne after the ex-
pulsion of the French ? What war ensued ? Was the contest between the
French and Spanish princes settled? — 12. Give an account of the emperor
of the east. What happened during the reign of his successor ? What
account can you give of" Andronicus IT. ?
286
BAJAZET.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. IX.
1399-
Bajazet
threatens
Constanti-
nople.
1299.
Othman I.
1236.
Orchan and
Solyman
obtain per-
manent
footing in
Europe.
1359.
Amurath.
man power. His death left the empire a prey to civil commo-
tions.
13. John Paljsologus reigned thirty-six years, during which
the distress of the nation was continually augmenting. At the
instigation of Amurath, the Ottoman sultan, he put out the eyes
of Andronicus, his eldest son, and of John, his grandson, —
imprisoned them', and made Manuel, his second son, his heir.
His discontented subjects removed the two blind princes from
their prison to the throne. The emperor, with Manuel, made his
escape from Constantinople, and thus civil war was again added
to other disasters. A reconciliation between the contending
princes was at length effected, by the partition of the remaining
possessions of the Greeks ; Constantinople being assigned to
Manuel and John Palaeologus, (who died shortly after,) and all
without the wall to the blind princes. The Ottoman sultan,
Bajazet, threatened the city. A truce was effected, by the pro-
mise of an annual tribute from the Greeks, and the toleration of
the Mahometan religion. Bajazet soon violated this truce,
and again laid siege to Constantinople, under pretence of vindi-
cating the rights of John, the blind prince. Manuel was con-
strained to flee, and sought aid from France. Meanwhile, Bajazet
restored John to the throne ; then, claiming the city for himself,
he continued the siege. Constantinople must now have fallen,
had not a threatening power in the east demanded the imme-
diate attention of Bajazet.
14. THE OTTOMAN TURKS.— On the destruction of the
Seljoukian kingdom, by the descendants of Jenghis Khan, many
of the Turkish chiefs retired among the mountains, and estab-
lished small principalities. Of these, the Ottoman was destined
by Providence to exercise a wide and important influence upon
the nations of the earth. It was founded by Othman ; — his
reign of twenty-seven years was one of war and conquest.
Prusa, near the sea of Marmora, was made the capital of his
kingdom. He was succeeded by his son Orchan, who con-
tinued his encroachments upon the Grecian provinces, conquer-
ed the whole of Bithynia, and obtained a victory over Androni-
cus the younger. Solyman, the son of Orchan, with several
thousand Turks, crossed the Hellespont in the civil wars of the
Grecian princes. They took possession of the fortresses of
Thrace, and the Grecian power being insufficient to expel them,
they obtained a permanent footing in Europe.
15. Orchan and Solyman both dying, Amurath, the son of
Orchan, succeeded. He pushed the Turkish conquests in Eu-
rope, subjected nearly the whole of Thrace, and made A&ria-
nople his European capital. He then attacked the warlike tribes
between the Danube and the Adriatic. In a battle with these
13. Of John Palaeologus ? Of Manuel ? Of the two blind princes ? Of
Bajazet? 14. What occurred when the kingdom of the Seljoukians was
destroyed? Who founded the Ottoman sovereignty? What was his
capital? What was done by his son? What by his grandson? — 15. Give
an account of Amurath.
TAMERLANE. 287
nations, in Servia, although victorious, he fell by the hand of a ■Mddiemst.
Servian soldier, who starting up from among the heaps of slain period v.
upon the battle-field, stabbed this destroyer of his country's in- chap. ix.
dependence. Amuvath established the janizaries, the praetorians
of the Ottoman empire. They were selected from among his
captives, educated in the religion of the Moslems, — trained to
the exercise of arms, and consecrated by a dervish. Amurath
was succeeded by his son Bajazet, the rapidity of whose BaJazet-
marches and conquests procured for him, among his country-
men, the name of Ilderim, or the lightning. He extended the j^/qopo.
empire of the Ottomans in Asia 5 and in Europe he subjected the lis.
remaining parts of Thrace, Macedonia, and Thessaly. He car- fonou^over
ried his arms into Hungary, and defeated at Nicopolis a confe- sigismund
derate army of French and Germans. ° ungary*
16. The interference of Bajazet in the affairs of the Greek Tamerlan^
princes, and his siege of Constantinople, have already been orTimur-'
mentioned. From this siege, he was recalled by a Mogul irrup- /Timuf'the
tion under Tamerlane, to defend his Asiatic dominions. Ta- lame.)
merlane was a descendant, in the female line, of Jenghis Khan ;
and from being the chief of a small province of Transoxania, he
raised himself to the sovereignty of the Mogul empire. Jn a 1399
campaign of one year, he made himself master of Delhi, passed Tamerlane
the Ganges, and penetrated to the Burrampooter, when intelli- ^oftomaif6
gence of the conquests of Bajazet, induced him to return. After empire,
conquering the Christians in Georgia, and one city in Anatolia,
Tamerlane left for a time the Ottoman dominions. At Aleppo,
the capital of Sicily, he conquered the Turkish emirs ; but at
Damascus he met a temporary check from the Mamelukes* of
Egypt.
17. The time occupied by Tamerlane in the Syrian con- 1402-
quest, gave to Bajazet an opportunity to prepare for the coming -angora.
contest. At Angora was fought between them the memorable defeats Ba-
battle in which the Turks were completely vanquished, and the /rpjjfjjah
sultan made prisoner. Tamerlane at first affected to treat Bajazet one of the'
with much consideration, and made to him moralizing speeches ; raqUe0rf0rg,n°
but afterwards he put him in an iron cage, in which he was sometimes
carried about to grace his triumphant marches. The invasion human
of Europe was prevented more by the want of a fleet to con- b,eangs l? be
duct the forces of Tamerlane across the Hellespont, than by the in walls—
suppliant embassies of the Greeks and the sons of Bajazet. tobTpound-
Tamerlane next projected the conquest of China, where the dy- ed to death
nasty of Jenghis had recently been overthrown ; but death pre- mortars?)
* The Mamelukes were originally slaves, purchased from the shores of
the Caspian, and first organized as a body guard by the renowned Saladin,
sultan of Egypt and Syria. Their numbers were from time to time aug-
mented, until they became the most powerful military force of Egypt, and
at length gained a supremacy in the government.
15. Of his successor. — 1©. What called Bajazet from the siege of Con-
stantinople ? Who was Tamerlane ? Give an account of his conquests. —
IT. Give an account of the contest between Bajazet and Tamerlane.
How was the vanquished treated by the conqueror ?
288
LADISLAUS AND JOHN HUNNIADES.
Middle Hist.
PERIOD V.
CHAf. IX.
Mahomet I.
and Amu-
rath II.
Pope Euge-
nius urges a
crusade.
1443.
Near
JSISSA.
The Chris-
tians victo-
rious.
(The cele-
brated
Pcanderbeg,
afterwards
chief of Al-
bania, was
in this
battle.)
1444.
VARjYA.
Amurath de-
feats the
Christians,
and estab-
lishes the
Turkish
power.
10,000 Chris-
tians slain.
Nations
who a few
centuries
before had
raised such
vast armies
to invade
the infidels,
now stupid-
ly suffered
them to
come to
their own
doors.
vented the execution of his plans. Though the strength of the
Ottoman power was for a time suppressed, yet the sons of Ba-
jazet were left in possession of the different provinces of his
kingdom ; and discord and destructive civil wars followed,
which ceased only with the death of all, save Mahomet I.,
under whose sway the unity of the empire was restored. Ma-
homet was succeeded by Amurath II., who renewed the siege
of Constantinople, but was recalled by a revolt in his own do-
minions.
18. The revival and spread of the Turkish power in Europe,
awakened Pope Eugenius to a consciousness of the danger, not
only of Constantinople, but of all Christendom. He wisely
sought to form a league among the Christian powers against the
infidels. The Hungarians and Poles, under their monarch La
dislaus, in whom the government of both kingdoms was united,
undertook the war. His army was augmented by many soldiers
from France and Germany, and strengthened by the counsels
aud conduct of the pope's legate, cardinal Julian, and the brave
Hungarian general, John Hunniades. The Christians, in two
successive battles, humbled the Ottoman power, and drew from
Amurath an offer of peace, by which he was to withdraw from
their frontier. The remonstrances and intrigues of the cardinal
prevailed against the advice of Hunniades, and the Christians
violated the treaty. With an army diminished by the departure
of the French and Germans, (volunteers, who on the first sound
of peace, had hastened to their homes,) Ladislaus inarched to
encounter Amurath. The Turk, irritated and incensed by the
bad faith of his opponents, hastened to avenge himself. On the
field of Varna, the armies were drawn up in hostile array, and
a most sanguinary conflict terminated in the triumph of the Ma-
hometans. Ladislaus signalized himself by daring feats, but at
length perished on the field. 10,000 Christians were slain,
but so great was the loss of the Turks, that Amurath declared
another such victory would prove his ruin. The valiant Hun-
niades survived, and for many years defended the Hungarian
frontier from the arms of the infidels.
19. Mahomet II. succeeded his father on the Ottoman
throne. While he was making professions of friendship to
Constantine, the last of the Greek emperors, he was secretly
maturing a plan for the conquest of his capital. He erected a
fortress on the European side of the Bosphorus, which gave him
the command of the streets, and in spite of the supplications of
the Greeks, prepared to besiege the city. The winter preced-
ing the siege, was one of distress and dismay within the capital.
Constantine, with a spirit worthy of the best days of the em-
pire, endeavored to animate the fainting hearts of his degenerate
IT. What happened in the Ottoman empire after the capture of Bajazet?
Give an account of Amurath II. ? — 18. What was done by pope Eugenius ?
What army was collected? What military movement favorable to the
Christians occurred ? What bad conduct followed ? Give an account of
the great battle of Varna. What account can you give of John Hunniades f
EXD OF THE GREEK EMPIRE. 289
subjects, to quell their divisions, and to inspire them with heroic Middle m^-
ardor. He conveyed the intelligence of his distress to the period v.
western monarchs, and solicited the aid of his Christian brethren. CHAP- IX-
But amid the din of arms and petty contentions which re- ^-^"V"^'
sounded through the western nations, the petitions of Constan-
tine passed unheeded, and their own danger from the Turks
was blindly disregarded. Constantine next attempted to effect
a reconciliation of the churches, which might enlist the pope in
his cause ; but the attempt only brought upon him the wrath of
the Greek churches, and involved the city in new disorders.
20. Meanwhile Mahomet continued his active preparations
for the siege, which early in the spring he opened by sea and
land. The spirits of the Greeks revived when a small fleet of
five ships, furnished by Sicily, the Morea, and some of the
islands of the Archipelago, triumphantly entered the harbor, after
obtaining a splendid victory over the Turkish fleet which
guarded the Bosphorus. Mahomet now devised a plan, by
which his fleet obtained possession of the harbor, the entrance Mahomet's
to which was guarded by a chain, and defended by the Greek fcJ2 de^e
vessels. He caused a passage of nearly two leagues to be dug transports
over land, lined with planks, and smeared with grease ; and in ^ver uSd.
the space of one night, by the help of engines, and a prodigious
number of men, he drew a fleet of more than a hundred vessels
across this passage, and launched them all in the harbor. The
city, after enduring a siege of fifty-three days, was taken by as-
sault. Constantine, the last of the Csesars, perished bravely
fighting, while multitudes fell by his side. The city experi- 1453.
enced the horrors of sack and pillage, heightened by the ani- ^JKHSb
mosity which the Mahometans felt towards the Christians. by the
Mahomet now established his throne in the capital of the east, Turks-
and the remainder of the Greek empire soon fell before the arms
of the Moslem conqueror. A succession of able princes filled
the Turkish throne, under whom the empire became consoli-
dated.
19. Relate the operations of Mahomet II. Of Constantine. — 20. What
circumstance cheering to the Greeks occurred ? How did Mahomet remove
his ships ? Relate the final fall of Constantinople and the Greek empire,
and the establishment of the Ottoman.
37
MODERN HISTORY.
FROM THE DISCOVERY OF AMERICA.
Return of Columbus.
PERIOD I.
THE DISCOVERY £ 1492. < OF AMERICA
THE TREATY OP
CHATEAU CAMBRESIS
TO
1559.
WHICH ESTAB-
LISHES PROTESTANTISM.
CHAPTER J.
General view of Europe.
1. At the commencement of this period of history, we find Modem His.
the nations entering upon a new order of things. Indeed, the period I.
student of universal history may say this in every age ; and he chap. i.
who should have expected the state of the world to continue un- v-^-v^/
changed, or who should have believed that in the mirror of the
past he could see the future, would have been mistaken. Theo- a fallacious
ries whose basis is analogy, often mislead the student: and no ^SaJ
i i • i • ■ w .1 i -Ti • reasoning
where more than in history. It has been said that nations are exposed.
Modern History. — Period I. — Chap. I. — 1. What do we find on com-
mencing the present period ? Do we in any two ages find the state of the
world alike ?
291
292
THE DAWN OF A NEW HISTORIC DAY.
Modern His.
A great
change.
Its causes.
The cru-
sades of the
12th and
13th centu-
ries.
Commercial
marts.
1236.
Paper
money.
1438.
First print-
ing by Ros-
ter. (See
Chronologi-
cal Table.)
The arts of
printing and
navigation
diffuse
knowledge.
like individuals, and therefore must have their growth, maturi-
ty, and decay. This is no better reasoning than it would be to
affirm that nations, being like rivers, composed of aggregated
particles which change as they flow, must by the laws of
nature flow on while time endures. Nations are unlike indivi-
duals, because there is no physical necessity for their decline.
They are unlike rivers, because their particles are intellectual
and moral agents, amenable to a righteous God ; and their pros-
perity or decay will be according to their own conduct, and his
Providential appointment.
2. But although the world is ever changing, the period now
under consideration is in this respect altogether remarkable ; it
is in fact the dawning of a new historic day. The crusades,
although undertaken in the spirit of a fanaticism, at war with
Christianity, and carried on with a great and criminal destruc-
tion of human life, had yet beneficial effects on European
civilization. They brought distant nations together, who thus
each learned much from the others, and returning to their
homes, they there improved political and social relations. They
acquired a taste for articles of convenience of which they had
not before known the use, and learned where their wants might
be supplied; and where their own surplus productions might
find sale. Thus an impulse was given to trade, manufactures,
and arts ; and European Commerce began soon after the
commencement of the crusades. Venice led the way ; Con-
stantinople, Genoa, and Pisa were among the earliest commer-
cial marts. London obtained its first charter, with powrer to
elect its sheriff, from Henry J. ; — its first trading company was
formed in 1319. Florence, under the Medici, was the empo-
rium of trade, as well as arts. London was of little mercantile
importance, when Bruges and Ghent, and afterwards Antwerp,
were the centres of European commerce. Paper money was in-
troduced from China into Italy, in the thirteenth century. In
the fourteenth, banks existed in Genoa and Florence.
3. This was an age of invention and discovery. The art of
-printing was invented, and the polarity of the magnetic needle
discovered, by which navigation was improved and new re-
gions made known. By these arts, knowledge took wings,
and became so widely spread, that no barbarian burner of li-
braries could again deprive the world of its intellectual riches.
The Bible was printed; — the human mind, which had began to
expand, thus received an impulse, that prepared the way for
1. Suppose in this free country persons should say that it does not matter
how rulers and people conduct, things must take their course, because na-
tions are like individuals — what reply would you make? — %, What effect
had the crusades in ushering in a new historic day ? What account can you
give of the introduction of commerce ? What city led the way in commerce ?
What others are among the oldest commercial cities? What account can
you here give of London. Of Florence. What other cities are named ? —
3. What great inventions and discoveries were made in the arts, which fa-
cilitated the spread of knowledge ? — What is remarked concerning the spread
of sacred knowledge by the printing of the bible ?
THE DAWN OF MODERN CIVILIZATION. 293
breaking the most galling fetters by which mankind were ever Jtfo^er?t His-
enslaved; and the Reformation dawned upon Christendom, period i.
The invention of gunpowder made a change in the art of war, chap. i.
which took the palm from mere physical strength and courage. <-^^^^*^
It gave the invaded advantages over the invader ; thus lessening
the probability of settled nations being again overrun, and
bringing the chances of war more within the scope of calcula- Invention of
tion. These circumstances, combined with the introduction of gunpowder,
diplomatic art, and with the practice which now prevailed of and stanY-
employing and paying regular armies, instead of the feudal ser- ins armies,
vice, greatly ameliorated the condition of Europe in respect to c character
war. When immense masses of barbarians were moving over ofvvars-
and prostrating the settled nations, the feudal system seemed
necessary to fix them. This mission was now fulfilled, and the
system was passing to decay, or changing its form. The prin-
cipal thrones of Europe had been simultaneously filled with
kings who had, with great talent and deep policy, depressed
the nobles and strengthened the royal authority. The princi-
pal of these were Louis XL, Henry VII., and Ferdinand, the
Catholic. At the same time Isabella of Castile, and John II.,
of Portugal, by their patronage of navigators, added vast regions
by discovery. The practice of sending diplomatic agents or
ambassadors from nation to nation, arose in this age, and was theCaSXuc,
said to have commenced with the Spaniards. Diplomacy was, the first to
however, " a knavish calling," as these national agents were by se matlc °
order of their kings, to whom the whole foreign department of asent3-)
each country belonged, watching to take unfair and dishonest
advantages ; caring nothing for the rest of the world, if their
own master's power was advanced, and not scrupling, for sel-
fish purposes, to stir up bloody and causeless wars between
other nations. Posts for carrying dispatches were about this
time introduced.
4. A highly important feature of the present period, was the
revival of learning. This may in its beginnings be traced to
the brilliant genius of Charlemagne ; he having founded the first Aicuin, born
university in Europe, that of Paris. His friend and preceptor at York, first
Alcuin, was its brightest ornament. Alfred of England founded theumver-
the second university, that of Oxford. He was himself a Spayrigf
scholar, and one of those to whom the English language owes
its formation. The Scholastic Philosophy, began with Jllcuin,
and continued to be regarded as the highest pursuit of acute minds
through five centuries. The grand object of inquiry among the
3. What effect had the discovery of gunpowder? What other circum-
stances contributed to change the state of Europe respecting war ? What
is here said of the feudal system ? What three kings are named, and for
■what are they remarkable ? What two sovereigns were the most remarkable
for patronizing discovery? What can be said of diplomacy at that pe-
riod ? What great convenience to the world originated about this time ? —
4-. What important feature of this period is next noticed ? What part had
Charlemagne in this movement? Alfred of England? Which of these
monarchs was himself a scholar? What is said of the Scholastic Philoso-
phy ? What account is given of Alcuin?
294
REVIVAL OF LEARNING.
Modern His.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. I.
(Scotland
and Erin
contend tor
Ills birth.
Hence he is
called Sco-
tus Eri-
gena.)
1130.
Peter
Abelard.
(Michael
Scot, sup-
posed by the
ignorant to
be a wi-
zard. See
Walter
Scott's
"Lay of the
Last Min-
strel.")
schoolmen, or scholastic philosophers was, " what is the object
of our thoughts when we employ general terms."* The school-
men at first united in opinion that there were in the mind real
ideas, or existences, corresponding to general terms, and hence
were called Realists. For two centuries Realism prevailed ; but
in the course of the discussions much freedom of thought on
mental operations was elicited by the writers, among whom
may be named John Scotus Erigena, who taught at Oxford,
and Gerbert, who became pope under the name of Sylvester
II. These were opposed 03^ RoscELLiNUsf of Compeigne, and
after him, by Peter Abelard of Paris, who maintained that
general terms are like algebraic signs, — themselves, in their
compound signification, the objects of thought when employed
by the reasoning faculty, which without such aid, could not on
general subjects perform its proper functions. This doctrine of
words or names, was called " Nominalism." The acute reason-
ers who maintained it, were led to some inferences concerning
sacred things which alarmed the church. Duns Scotus, one
of the Oxford scholastics, called the " subtle doctor," was so
much admired that it is said he had 30,000 students to attend
his lectures. He was invited to Paris and there excited equal
attention. He was the author of a theory respecting the birth
of the Virgin, called the " Immaculate conception," which he
brought two hundred arguments to prove, and which was after-
wards the cause of persecution in the church.
5. Ancient manuscripts which had been kept for ages care-
fully preserved in monasteries, — their only safe depositories
through the dark ages, began now to be examined by the monks,
who alone possessed sufficient learning. From another source
the ancient lore of Greece and Rome was introduced. The
Cordovan Averroes had translated Aristotle's works, and Mi-
chael Scot had rendered them from Arabic into Latin. Aris-
totle now enjoyed a literary supremacy in the several universi-
ties which at this time existed. The works of the Arabian
Avicenna were also translated and introduced into the schools.
From the Arabians too, proceeded algebra, that powerful engine
fc The author of this work, in 1832, published an article on this memora-
ble question in " the Journal of Science," in which she undertook to prove
that it could not be answered in the terms proposed, because the question it-
self contains a latent fallacy.
tRoscellinus taught the doctrine of the Trinity in such a manner, that he
was charged with Tritheism, and was obliged to flee from persecution for
heresy and sin against the Holy Ghost.
4. What, was the grand question which so long occupied the schoolmen ?
What was their opinion at first ? For how long a time did realism prevail ?
Did some mental improvement result from these metaphysical reasoners?
Who among them are mentioned ? By whom were they opposed 1 What
doctrine did their opponents maintain ? With what heresy was Roscellinus
charged * Give an account of Duns Scotus. — 5. Where were the remains
of ancient learning preserved ? By whom examined and brought forth ?
Who were the only learned men? What Arabian authors were now
studied ? What author was now regarded as of supreme authority in the
schools ?
PROGRESS OF LANGUAGE.
4tfO
of the mind, which enables it to wield in calculation, subjects
which without it, the human powers cannot grasp. England
now produced a philosopher who turned his attention to sub-
jects of natural science, — this was Roger Bacon, the most
philosophic genius of the middle ages. So much in advance
of his age was " friar Bacon," that he was regarded as a magi-
cian. The revival of Aristotle's works, which were considered
as favoring realism, brought up its long-vexed question, and
William Occam gained great applause as a defender of No-
minalism. In the meantime the philosophy of Plato revived,
and favored by the Medici, was opposed to that of Aristotle.
When Constantinople was taken by the Turks, many learned
men fled to the different parts of Europe, who became authors
and teachers in universities; and thus the downfall of the east-
ern empire greatly promoted the diffusion of learning.
6. Language. — The Latin was cultivated as the only lan-
guage of the learned during the dark ages. New languages,
however arose, formed by mingling the dialects of the bar-
barians with the Latin. The first of these which produced
authors of any note was that of Provence; — there the trouba-
dours, those minstrel poets of the "joyous science," took their
rise ; numbering in their ranks many knights of fame and royal de-
gree, each of whom sung in Provencal French, his lady eh charms,
his own devotion, and the exploits of heroes, particularly those
of Palestine. The Italian language in Italy took the place of
the Latin, and the great Dante consecrated it by the " Di-
vine Comedy ;" Petrarch had shown its fluent melody by his
love sonnets, and Boccaccia its powers in prose. Chaucer,
the father of English poetry, had begun to demonstrate the rich-
ness and adaptation to verse of his native tongue; — Wickliffe,
the reformer, had shown its powerful energy in prose. The
imprisoned monarch, James I., of Scotland, had woed the muse
in the deep solitude to which his youth was barbarously con-
demned, and he became not only the most learned man, but the
best poet of his age. In Germany the vernacular tongue early
produced good histories and excellent poems; one of which,
called the Nibelungen-Leid, bears some striking resemblances to
the Iliad, and is yet unequalled in the German language for the
simple pathos of its narrative.
7. Architecture. — Among the wonders of the dark ages,
we are struck with the fact, that they produced, apparently all
at once, a species of architecture unrivalled for blended majesty
Modern His.
(Among the
troubadours
was Richard
the lion-
hearted, and
F. Barba-
rossa of
Germany.)
1411.
(The first
English
printing
press was
set up at
Westmin-
ster by Wm.
Caxton.)
(About
1200
The Nibe-
lungen-
Leid. The
author un-
known. See
Schlegel.)
5. Give an account of Roger Bacon. Of William Occam. What phi-
losophy was now opposed to that of Aristotle? What effect had the
taking of Constantinople by the Turks on the literature of Europe ? — 6.
What was the only language of the learned in Europe ? How did new dia-
lects arise ? Which was the first of these new dialects that produced au-
thors? What account can you give of the troubadours? What writers
by their genius gave character to the modern Italian ? Who were the ear-
liest writers in the English language ? What species of composition did
the Germans early excel in ? What remarkable poem produce ? — 7. What
is said of a species of architecture produced in the dark ages ?
296
ADVANCE OF THE FINE ARTS.
Modern Jlis.
PERIOD I.
CHAP. I.
The Gothic
architecture
introduced
about the
end of the
ninth
century.
1025.
Guido of
Arezzo.
Franco von
Cologne.
1823.
John de
Muris in-
vents semi-
breves, min-
ims, &.C.
1405.
(James I.
of Scotland,
made pri-
soner by
Henry IV.
at the age
of 13; but
furnished
with books
and teach-
ers. Re-
leased by
Henry V.)
141?.
1240
to
1520.
Cimabue.
Leonardo di
Vinci.
Michael
Angelo.
Raphael
Sanzio.
and beauty, and which inclines the beholder to religious awe.
It has received the name of Gothic, but is not now believed to
have originated with the Goths, but with the Lombards. The
great cathedral of Milan is regarded to this day as unsurpassed.
Notre Dame at Paris was one hundred years in building. About
the same time was required for erecting the great York Minster,
the cathedrals of Rheims and Rouen, and the church of St.
Marks at Venice. The greatest church, — in fact the most spa-
cious hall ever built, is St. Peter's at Rome. The present struc-
ture was begun about 1513, and not completed till 1614. The
measures resorted to by various popes, particularly Leo X , to
obtain means for its completion, was a moving cause of the
downfall of the papacy.
8. Music, the universal language of feeling, — always the most
refined and elegant of the arts, and now one of the most pro-
found of the sciences, received the rudiments of its present form
in the dark ages. Guido of Arezzo was the inventor of the
notation by lines and spaces, but he used dots. His scale was
imperfect, being only a hexachord ; to express the sounds of
which, he used six syllables. Franco of Cologne added the
seventh note, and invented the musical divisions of time ; and
John of Muris, the characters by which they are expressed.
Archimedes is by some regarded as the inventor of the organ.
The fable of the beautiful St. Cecilia, with the nightly visits of
the angel, who was drawn down by her melody, dates back to
the third century, when a lovely Christian lady of that name,
who excelled in music, suffered martyrdom at Rome. One of
the earliest composers of music was the imprisoned royal bard,
James J. of Scotland. He played eight different instruments
with such skill, that he seemed to be inspired. An Italian
writer, his cotemporary, boasts of him as the pride of his age in
regard to music ; particularly for a new kind which he had in-
vented, of a plaintive and soothing character, and which, says
the author, was imitated by the Italians. Though songs of
war and love came into vogue with the troubadours, yet the ob-
ject of music was, in these ages, religious. The organ was
brought to great perfection ; the grand and simple style of sa-
cred music prevailed ; and the long aisles and echoing vaults of
the vast cathedrals, heightened its effect.
9. Painting, under the patronage of the Medici, revived at
Florence, and the great Italian school was established. Cima-
bue, its founder, struck out for himself an original and majestic
style, in which he was excelled by Leonardo di Vinci. Mi-
chael Angelo carried the style to a degree of sublimity
7. What great cathedrals are named, and what is said of the length of
time taken to erect them ? — 8. What account can you give of the cultivation
of music during the dark ages? What was invented by Guido of Arezzo ?
By Franco of Cologne ? By John of Muris? Who is regarded by some
as the inventor of the organ ? What is reported of St. Cecilia? What is
here said of James I. ? What was the object of music at that time ? — 9. At
what time, and where did the art of painting revive ? Who was the founder
of the Italian school? Who its greatest masters ?
THE PAPAL POWER. 297
which belongs to no other painter. Raphael Sanzio, to the Mode™ gfo
sublime, united grace and beauty ; and his works exhibit the ut- period i.
most perfection which the art has reached. chap. j.
10. But though improvement was thus dawning upon the ^-^^v^«^
world ; the papal dominion, the most absolute to which man-
kind has ever been subjected, was existing in full force ; and
it comprehended all Christendom, except the Greek church. For *«|r
in order to keep unity, those who presumed to deny the pope's Fourth
and the church's infallibility, were cut off by fire and sword. A t^Lateran
council of 1200 bishops at Rome, decreed that the secular powers at Rome, '
must be compelled to extirpate from their territories all heretics ;
and a million of the Waldenses and others suffered. Rome had
thus a second time become the seat of empire ; but small was the
power of Augustus and Trajan compared with that of the popes.
They assumed only political authority, whereas the popes tensions6"
claimed divine power. They were " vicars of Christ, and vice- than any
gerents of God," therefore the earth, with all things therein, was men ever set
under their control; they gave kingdoms or took them away; ^J^no
nay, they entered the inner sanctuary of the mind, to be there church
the guiding will, the understanding, and the conscience. What- p^ume til
ever they set up as truth, men must believe ; what they were justify.)
pleased to call sin, men must call sin too ; and what they com-
manded, though it were otherwise crime, must be performed on
pain of eternal damnation. The whole army of monks, and crusad-
ing monkish warriors, such as the knights of St. John and those of
the Teutonic order, were under vows of obedience and celibacy,
and often changing their location, they had no tie to hinder their
entire devotion to the great central power, — no country but Rome.
11. The practice of auricular confession began about A. D. 120©-
1200. By this, the emissaries of the pope, in the persons of ^Sfeasion .
confessors, obtained the secrets of those in power; and were
thus kept advised of coming events, and could prepare to
meet them. The sins confessed, it was believed, might be ab-
solved by the confessor, especially in consideration of penance,
such as flagellation, and wearing shirts of hair- cloth; and thus
absolved, divine vengeance was no more to be feared for the
most flagrant transgressions. Hence the power of conscience Indulsences
was put to rest; and deluded men, believing that the priesthood
could open and shut the gates of heaven, sought rather to obtain
their favor, than that of the all-seeing God. The papacy took ad-
vantage of this delusion to extend its power and wealth. Partial in-
dulgences for the suspension of penance, on account of particular
sins, or plenary indulgence could be had for money. The church MasseS fGr
made merchandise of natural affection, requiring masses to be paid the dead.
10. What is said of the papal dominion ? How did the Roman church
preserve unity ? What decree is mentioned ? Who were under vows of
obedience and celibacy ? What in regard to country was the consequence
of their not being allowed to have families? — 11. What advantages did the
popes gain by auricular confession ? How was conscience put to rest on
the part of the persons confessing ? Whose favor would they naturally
seek to obtain ?
38
Penance.
298 RELIGIOUS TOLERATION UNKNOWN.
Modem His. for? DV the people, to take their dead relatives from purgatory,
period i. and send them to heaven. They made laws respecting marriage
chap. i. and divorce, such as the Creator never made, but which the
-— *^v^s^ pope could remit for a consideration ; and they taxed the love
ago of fame, by the profane mockery of canonization, which au-
Canoniza- thorized men to worship what God has forbidden. This began
tion- as early as 993, where in a council at the Lateran palace, in
Rome, John XV. declared that " Hilderic, bishop of Augusta,
might be worshipped as a saint reigning with Christ in heaven."
This practice was continued, and men of shameless lives might
hope to be canonized; if they proved the devoted servants of
the hierarchy. The church, by these and other means, grew rich ;
and the priests, in many instances, rioted in luxury and ill-con-
cealed voluptuousness. But if men had accusing thoughts, they
ThetIi"J|"lsl" must not breathe them to the winds ; the Inquisition had its se-
cret agents at every turn. That of Spain alone had 20,000
officials.
12. The monarchs of Europe were allowed peaceably to ex-
ercise their political functions, provided they gave no offence to
the church, whose interest it was to keep its votaries from weak-
ening each other, and lavishing their treasures in war. Many
l nd h°noraDie exceptions to this character of worldly ambition with
and aii the which the Roman hierarchy is chargeable, appear, especially
fromnwhich m *ts ear^er day. While they did but what all are apt to do,
our republic seize advantages and keep them ; they little thought what a
were°ofthe tremendous engine they were constructing. It would be un-
R,omah Just to brand them with all the evils which mankind have
hence these suffered from religious persecution. The principles of tolera-
'T^cmr3" ti°n which teach that religion is a matter between man and his
progenitors Maker, and not subject to human authority, were in those days
aothersOS unknown. Force and fraud were the engines employed to
govern mankind. The first was mainly depended on by the
kings and nobles, and the last, in this period of the world, by
the church. Bad as were these methods, they were better than
the absolute anarchy and barbarism which prevailed after the
downfall of the empire of Charlemagne ; — when ancient civiliza-
tion was broken up, and modern had not begun to exist.
13. England, under Henry VIJ., had been far more pros-
perous than under her more warlike sovereigns. By degrees,
the disorders and insurrections which attended the commence-
Aeprudent" ment °f Ris reign were quieted, many good laws were passed,
butavari- commerce and industry were encouraged; and though his ava-
mg. r-ce j^ j^ tQ make oppressive exactions, they were counter-
balanced by these advantages. The parliament at this period
had little independence, but gave its sanction to such acts as
11. What means were taken to draw money from the people? What
tribunal took charge of any who might complain ? — 12. Was the papacy
generally friendly to peace? Should we make religious persecution a com-
plaint against the church solely ? What may be said of the earlier popes ?
What were the two main engines used against the violence and anarchy
which prevailed after the death of Charlemagne ? — 13. Give an account of
England.
STATE OF EUROPE.
299
were most agreeable to the king's will. Scotland at this pe-
riod, flourished under James IV., one of the greatest of her
kings, who held the marauding nobles in check, and protected
commerce. He married Margaret, the daughter of Henry
VII., and by this marriage the Stuarts afterwards filled the Eng-
lish throne.
14. In France, all the great feudal nobles had been brought
into subjection to the monarch. Charles VIII., who succeeded
his father, Louis XI., had by his marriage with Anne, the heiress
of Brittany, re-united that important province to the crown of
France. In Germany, the emperor, Frederic III., was succeeded
by his son Maximilian I. The low countries and Burgundy
had been annexed to the empire, by his marriage with Mary,
daughter of Charles the Bold, and the heiress of these pro-
vinces. His hereditary possessions were also increased by the
death of his cousin, the arch-duke of Austria, to whose domin-
ions he succeeded. The empire became better organized by
the establishment of imperial courts, and a division into circles.
Mary of Burgundy died, leaving the emperor a son, Philip, and
a daughter, Margaret, who was affianced to Charles VIII., and
sent to France to be educated. Maximilian made suit to Anne
of Brittany, and was accepted. Charles VIII. supplanted him,
married his espoused, and sent home his daughter. Hence,
hatred arose between Germany and France. Portugal, under
the sway of John II., had commenced a series of successful
naval enterprises, which extended her commerce and power, and
made her respectable among the nations of Europe.
15. Spain, by the territory and talents which were united in
its joint sovereigns, was taking the lead in the politics of Eu-
rope. The eldest of their children, who bore her mother's
name, became the wife of Emmanuel, of Portugal. By the con-
dition of this marriage the Jews were banished from that king-
dom. John the second, the amiable heir of Spain, received for
a bride, Margaret, that daughter of the emperor Maximilian who
had been educated in France ; while Joanna, their third child,
married Philip the Handsome, the emperor's son; and their
youngest child, Catharine of Arragon, was affianced, and after-
wards married to Arthur, the heir of England. Scarcely had
his marriage festivities ceased, when John died with a fever.
Isabella, the queen of Portugal, soon after expired in her mo-
ther's arms. Such repeated trials of her maternal heart, af-
fected her health ; and queen Isabella's days were overcast, and
drew to a close. But the affectionate mother survived to sus-
tain another trial not less severe. Her third daughter, Joanna,
had accompanied her husband to the Low Countries, and
having at Ghent given birth to a son, afterwards Charles
Modern His-
Charles
VIII.
Maximi-
lian I.
(Anne of
Brittany es-
poused by
proxy to
Maximilian,
marries
Charles.
She prefers
Louis of Or-
leans to
either.)
John II.
Patron of
discoverers.
Ferdinand
and Isabella-
Isabella
their daugh-
ter, marries
the heir of
Portugal.
1493.
(March 15.
Columbus
arrives at
Palos on his
return.)
Charles V.
born at
Ghent
1500.
Isabella
dies
1504.
13. Give an account of Scotland. — 14:. Of France. Of Germany. Of
Portugal. — 15. Which was now becoming the most prominent power in
Europe ? What marriage connections did the Spanish sovereigns make for
their children? What family misfortunes sunk the health of Isabella ?
300
A MONUMENT.
an instruc-
tive monu
ment.
Modern His. y<? she returned to Spain to be acknowledged with her hus-
period i. band, as next proprietor of the crown. The frivolous character
chap. i. of Philip, and the jealous fondness of Joanna, made them both
s-*^r~**—' intractable. Philip had little attachment to his wife ; and soon
left her to pass his time in Flanders ; when Joanna became in-
sane, and continued so throughout her life.
16. Switzerland had come into collision with Charles the
Bold, who thought that war with so contemptible a foe would
be but amusement. The Swiss defeated and cut up his army in
two engagements. In these, as well as at Morgarten, they demon-
strated the superiority of infantry. The skeletons of the Burgun-
ORjiJvsojf. ^an s°ldiers who fell were collected, and on the pile of human
morat. bones the Swiss placed an inscription, " Charles the Bold invaded
ThdeefeatSS Switzerland and left this Monument." Thus cautioned, the neigh-
ChBoied lhe boring monarchs permitted the hardy mountaineers to perfect
their free institutions in peace. Their enterprising youth found
°oft,\ioraeld empl°yment and reward in foreign service, being esteemed the
they erect best and most faithful soldiers in Europe. They would, how-
ever, engage in no wars but such as they believed to be just; and
they were always noted for their attachment to the mountain-
ous haunts of their boyhood.
17. Italy remained divided into independent states. Genoa
was prosperous ; Venice had become possessed of the isle of
Cyprus and continued to monopolise the commerce of the Me-
diterranean, and of the Indies. Her merchants outvied in wealth
and splendor, the monarchs of the most mighty nations. Milan
was governed by Ludovico Sforza, called " the Moor," who had
usurped the ducal honors. Naples was under the sway of an
period ofthe illegitimate branch of the house of Arragon. Florence was go-
itaiian verned by the family of the Medici. In Rome, the papal throne
repu ics. wag fiYled by the infamous Alexander VI., who was seeking to
extend the papal territories, and establish his wicked son, Caesar
Borgia, in a principality in Italy. The Ottoman throne was at
this time filled by Bajazet II., a mild, yet courageous prince.
He made war upon the Mamelukes of Egypt, and subdued that
kingdom. Russia, Sweden, Denmark, and Poland- were be-
hind the other European nations, and a considerable period
elapses before their history becomes much connected with the
politics of Europe.
18. Before closing our remarks on the general state of Chris-
Europe to tian Europe, we will hazard an hypothesis, which, though it
confede* should be regarded as visionary, will yet help the memory, by
racy. giving a common bearing to many otherwise unconnected facts.
It is this : Europe is destined to become a grand confederacy,
15. How long did she live after the birth of her grandson Charles V. ? —
16. Give an account of the invasion of Switzerland by Charles the Bold ?
What very appropriate monument did the Swiss erect on the field of Morat?
What was the condition of the Swiss at this period ?— IT. What were the
principal states of Italy at this period ? What was the condition of Genoa ?
Venice? Milan? Naples? Florence? Who was the Ottoman sultan?
Who was the pope, and what was he seeking to do ? What is said of the
other European nations ?
COLUMBUS.
301
Modern His-
and, at the end of the fifteenth century, it began to verge to-
wards this point. But the limits of the federative power were ill- period i.
defined ; and therefore could not be rightly understood and duly CHAP- "•
acknowledged by the individual states. There has been no regular ^^-v",w
representation of the several states in one general congress ;* /^he foun-
-i i • r- i i i • i ni i itt dationofthe
no boundaries fixed to each state, to which all have been obliged balance of
to agree, and no prescribed force to carry into effect laws for ^JJJ" bse
the common good of the whole, or to protect the weak from the fear that
the aggressions of the strong. But the idea of a balance of Austria," un-
poiver, which about this time began to be contended for, is an d^r Chajjj
indefinite confederation, tacitly acknowledging the obligations subjugate
of each nation to respect the rights of the others ; and saying pjjj^s116 \
to each — if you go too far, (it does not say how far,) we will all written law
interfere to check you. The wars of Europe from this period wnoSau-'
of history, have been either the struggles of individual ambi- thority is ac-
tion against this undefined federative power; or the jealousy of i? riindof
nations, that some king or dynasty would become so strong as f^utionfor
to endanger the unwritten federative constitution of Europe, nations.)
CHAPTER H.
Discovery of America.
1. The discovery of America is the most important event
recorded in profane history. The extraordinary man by whom
it was accomplished, was Christopher Columbus, a native Columbus
of Genoa. Like many of his countrymen, he early engaged in ThLl$rth0f
navigation. His attention to astronomy, and his knowledge of uncertain,
the figure of the earth, led him to believe that there might be
vast countries still undiscovered ; and that by sailing west, he
might find a passage to the East Indies, of which Marco Polo,
a Venetian traveller, had given glowing descriptions. His first
application for aid in his project, was made to his country-
men. They regarded his theory as a chimera of a visionary en-
thusiast. He next turned to Portugal ; John II. rejected his ser- 14^3
vices, but sent out ships privately to avail himself of the plans applies for
communicated by Columbus. He failed, and Columbus quitted Geno2,apor-
his court in disgust. To Henry VII. of England, he had fruit- tugai, End-
lessly applied, through his brother Bartholomew, while he aspain!
made personal application to Ferdinand and Isabella. After eight
* The congress of sovereigns makes another approach to an organized
confederacy.
1 8. What may it be supposed that Europe is destined to become ? What
principle began to be contended for ? In what light may that be considered ?
Chap. II.— 1. What led Columbus to believe there were undiscovered
regions? What passage did he believe might be found by sailing west?
Of what powers did he vainly solicit aid ?
302
A NEW WORLD.
Modern His-
Isabella
patronizes
Columbus.
1492.
August 3.
Columbus
sets sail.
Oct. 12.
t,and disco-
vered.
Landing of
Columbus
on St. Sal-
vador.
Cuba and
Hispaniola
discovered.
years, passed in indigence, and in repeated applications to that
court, Isabella at length became so far satisfied of the soundness
of his views, that she determined for herself, and the crown of
Castile, to become the patron of the enterprize. The monarchs
were at this time at St. Fe, — Grenada having just surrendered ;
and so completely drained were her finances by the Moorish
war, that the queen had no resource to raise the necessary funds
but the sale of her jewels, which she cheerfully offered. But
St. Angel the receiver of Arragon, loaned her the money.
2. The armament, when fitted out, consisted of only three
small vessels, manned by ninety men. With these frail barks,
Columbus sailed from Palos in Spain, August 3d, 1492, and
committed himself to the mercy of an unknown sea ; nor is it
wonderful, that the superstitious crew, uninspired with the en-
thusiastic hopes of their commander, should have regarded the
enterprise with feelings of awe and terror. After sailing many
days, discovering nothing but a boundless waste of waters,- —
where no human being had ever before penetrated, their hearts
misgave them; and they proposed to put to death their
obstinate commander, who resisted all their solicitations to
return. The genius of Columbus prevailed over the spirit of
sedition ; yet he was compelled to promise, that if, after three
days no land should be discovered, he would abandon the en-
terprise. Within the time specified, a little after midnight, on
the 12th of October, the joyful shout of land ! land ! was
uttered from the masthead by Columbus himself. As the glad
mariners approached the shore, which proved to be that of one
of the Bahama islands, they beheld it crowded with the gazing
natives, who pressed with eager curiosity, to. view the wonderful
machines which were about to visit them.
3. Since the time when Noah left the ark to set his foot upon
a recovered world, a landing so sublime as that of Columbus,
had never occurred. His majestic person attired with splendor,
his more majestic mind deeply penetrated with religious grati-
tude,— he led forth his officers and men ; and he was himself the
first European, who trod the American soil. His first act was
to prostrate himself, and return devout thanks to that Being who
had guided and preserved him. He next erected a crucifix, and
took possession of the island. — which he called St. Salvador, —
for the crown of Castile and Leon. The innocent inhabitants
received the Spaniards with joy, as superior beings. From St.
Salvador, Columbus visited several of the islands adjacent, and
discovered Cuba and Hispaniola. Arranging, with the free con-
sent of the inhabitants, to leave a garrison of his own men on
1. Who was the only sovereign to comprehend and aid him? Why
were the Spanish revenues at this time exhausted ? How did the queen
propose to raise the money ? — 2. What was the size of the fleet with which
Columbus sailed ? From what place did it depart, and when ? What were
the circumstances of the voyage? What land was first made, and when?
—3. Give an account of the landing of Columbus ? What discoveries did
he next make ? What preparation make for his return ?
SECOND VOYAGE. 303
the Island of Cuba, he took a few of the natives, and what Mode™ His.
gold he could obtain, together with specimens of the produc- period i.
tions of the country ; and on the 16th of January, 1493, he set chap. ii.
sail on his return, and arrived on the 15th of March at Palos,
from whence he had departed seven months and eleven days
before,
4. His success spread his renown through Europe The in-
habitants of Spain crowded to behold him. The sovereigns
received him with the most distinguishing marks of favor. A
new spirit was awakened, and multitudes were now ready to em-
bark in an enterprise, which promised them wealth and honor.
Ferdinand and Isabella, agreeably to previous stipulation, ap- m
pointed Columbus admiral and viceroy of all the countries The pope
discovered. The sanction of the pope was solicited, and Alex- gives away
tfip purth
ander VI., in virtue of his authority as viceregent of God, and
therefore supreme lord of the whole earth, gave to the Spanish
monarchs the sovereignty of all the countries which their
navigators should discover to the west of a meridian, 350
leagues westward of the Cape de Verd Islands. To this arrange-
ment, Portugal, which was to possess all discoveries on the other
side of the meridian, was indebted for the kingdom of Brazil. 1493.
Columbus set forth on his second voyage with 17 vessels. Columbus'
On his return to Hispaniola, he found that the Spaniards whom sec°age!0>"
he had left, had been massacred, and their fort destroyed. .
After the departure of their commander, their licentiousness Hispaniola,
and rapacity had known no bounds ; and the kind-hearted na- (St. Domm-
tives were at length aroused to madness ; and destroyed, in self-
defence, the abusive intruders.
5. Columbus now made choice of a healthy situation, where Isabella the
he founded a city, which he named Isabella. During a short America!11
absence of Columbus, the Spaniards, disobeying his commands,
irritated the natives by new excesses ; who, assembling in vast
numbers, sought to drive from the land these terrible invaders.
Columbus having returned, attacked them in the night, and so
alarmed were they by his fire-arms, and other weapons of Eu-
ropean warfare, that they fled without resistance ; and he at
length subjected the whole island to the Spanish government.
The unhappy natives next attempted to destroy their oppressors nativeYof
by neglecting the cultivation of the maize and cassada which HlsPamoIa-
furnished bread. They were themselves, however, the greatest
sufferers. The Spaniards received supplies from Europe, while
the Indians, having retired to the mountains and wooded parts
of the island, and subsisting upon the spontaneous productions
3. How long was his homeward passage? How long had been his ab-
sence ? — i. How was Columbus received ? What application was made to
the pope, and what division thus settled, as the boundary between the
Spanish and Portuguese discoveries? How large an armament had Colum-
bus on his second voyage ? How had the Spaniards conducted during the
absence of Columbus, and what had been done by the natives? — 5. What
city was founded ? Relate the further particulars of the conquest of St.
Domingo.
Mournful
fate of the
304
THE OCEAN CHIVALRY.
Modern His.
PERIOD
CHAP. II.
Third voy-
age of Co-
lumbus.
Discovers
Trinidad
and the
continent.
149%
The Cabots
the first
discoverers
of the con-
tinent.
Amerigo
Vespucio
gives name
to the con-
tinent.
1-49S-
Vasco de
Gama dou-
bles the
Cape of
Good Hope.
1499.
Cabral.
(The Cape
discovered
by Bartholo-
mew Dias,
1486.)
3ad charac-
ter of the
colonists.
Columbus
falsely ac-
cused.
of the soil, died with famine and disease ; and in a few months,
more than a third part of the inhabitants of the island perished.
6. Columbus leaving the government of the colony to his
faithful brother, Bartholomew, again returned to Spain, where
his enemies were undermining his interest with the king.
He was received with seeming favor ; but the delays attendant
on the fitting out of another expedition, and the preparations
for making the colony permanent, detained him two years. In
his third voyage, he proceeded farther to the south, discovered
the mouth of the Orinoco, and landed on the continent. John
and Sebastian Cabot, sailing under the patronage of Henry
VII., had the year previous discovered the continent at Labrador.
On his arrival at Hispaniola, Columbus found the colony in a
suffering state. The insurrections of the natives, and still worse,
the mutiny of the Spaniards, had reduced his brother to the
greatest distress. Private adventures from Spain began to be
attempted. Alonzo de Ojeda sent by the merchants of
Seville, followed the track of Columbus, having obtained
his charts and journal. Amerigo Vespucio, a native of Flo-
rence, accompanied this expedition; and by publishing a work
on his return, descriptive of the country and natives on the
coast of South America, he came to be considered the discove-
rer of the continent; and thus fraudulently deprived Columbus
of the honor of giving it his name.
7. Meanwhile the Portuguese had pushed their discoveries
in the south and east. A squadron, under the command of
Vasco de Gama, had doubled the Cape of Good Hope, and
thus discovered the passage to India. The following year,
another expedition, sent to the East Indies, under Cabral,
steering west to avoid the winds and calms off the coast of
Africa, discovered by accident the coast of Brazil, in South
America, and took possession of the country. As it was found
to be on the Portuguese side of the pope's line, the right of that
monarchy to the country was not disputed. This accidental
discovery proved of more value to the crown of Portugal
than all its East India possessions.
8. Many of the colonists whom Columbus had carried over
were of the very dregs of society — criminals, who were re-
leased from prison to plant colonies in the New World. His
attempts to enforce discipline among this licentious mass, ex-
posed him to their hatred ; and they made false accusation^
against him, which reached the court of Spain. There he had
active enemies; for envy, which ever follows and seeks to de-
preciate superior merit, had been awakened, by witnessing his
6. Give some particulars of the visit of Columbus to Spain. Of his
third voyage. Who had discovered the continent before Columbus ? What
account can you give of Ojeda? Of Amerigo Vespucio? — T. What im-
portant discoveries were made by the Portuguese? — 8. Of what character
were many of the Spanish colonists ? How did Columbus suffer on account
of this, both in the colony and in Spain ?
COLUMBUS IN CHAINS. 305
splendid successes. In one respect his conduct had laid him Modernity
open to misrepresentation. Isabella had forbidden the slavery period i.
of the natives. Columbus had faithfully endeavored to fulfil chat. ii.
her wishes ; but circumstances forced him to allow a species ^^"""•^'**«/
of servitude almost amounting to slavery. This was told at
court, with exaggerations. Isabella, though she had long with-
stood these calumnies, at last yielded to their influence, and be-
lieved Columbus to be guilty of oppression to the innocent na-
tives, for whom her kind heart was warmly interested,
9. Francis de Bovadilla was now appointed to proceed to 1500.
Hispaniola, with power to examine into the administration of Bovadilla
Columbus, and if necessary, to supersede him in the govern- sent over'
ment. On his arrival, the island had been reduced by Colum-
bus to submission, and all dissensions composed. Bovadilla,
however, at once assumed the government, and sent Columbus Columbus
in chains to Europe. Ferdinand, ashamed of this injustice, gave chain"? "
orders on his arrival in Spain, that he should be released, and
invited to court. The cold and calculating monarch received (Bovadiiio
him with civility ; — Isabella, with such tenderness, that Colum- in 150i
bus knelt at her feet and wept. He related to his sovereigns to'return"to
his trials, his efforts, and his injuries. But, though Bovadilla Spain, goes
was removed from the government and recalled, Columbus was with his
not reinstated in his rights, now so extensive as to be an object Jr0eYsdure.)
of jealousy to the court. On the contrary, Nicholas de
Ovando was appointed governor of St. Domingo.
10. Columbus felt keenly this new injury; and he re-
mained two years an unsuccessful suitor at the court of Spain.
Finding it vain to solicit redress from an ungrateful monarch, 15058-4.
he offered to conduct another voyage of discovery, to seek a fourth and
new passage to the Indies, which he expected to find some- last voyage-
where near the isthmus of Darien. Ferdinand, hoping to reap
farther advantages from his genius, furnished him with four small disagree-*
ships, and Columbus, at an advanced age, again went forth to ment among
seek new countries. This voyage was disastrous ; after sailing ShTage of
along the coast a considerable distance, he found his hopes of Columbus,
discovering a strait, delusive. He encountered a violent storm, posTnVhfm
and his vessels were so much injured as to compel him to run t057aatehisen
them aground at Jamaica. Here, far away from all aid or con- death. Some
solation, he was detained more than a year by the governor of ^"derj"
St. Domingo. When he returned, Isabella was dead, and from
her alone he had hopes of sympathy and justice. Heart stricken i^i«s
by this blow, he sunk into despondency, and died at Valladolid,
A. D. 1506.
11. Hernando Cortez, an idle, wilful, and irregular young
man, left his paternal mansion, in Estremadura, at the age of
8. In what respect had his conduct laid him open to misrepresentation ? —
9. Who was now sent over by the Spanish sovereigns, and with what
powers ? In what state did he find the island ? What however did he do ?
How did the sovereigns treat Columbus? Who was sent over governor? —
10. What did Columbus next undertake ? What was the character of his
last voyage ? What further account can you give of Columbus ?
39
306 HERNANDO COR.TEZ.
Modern His, nineteen, and went an adventurer, to Hispaniola, where Diego
period i. Columbus, son and successor of the great admiral was governor.
chap. ii. He sent Velasquez with an armament, to colonize Cuba. The
•^r~ss~»>~ good monk Las Casas, went as the companion of Velasquez,
Las Casas, an(| exerted an influence to prevent the atrocious abuse of the
who is called . . * , .„
" The Pro- natives which had occurred in the conquest 01 rJispamola. Cortez,
'Tndktns?'6 a^so' wno h^ acquired some fortune, went Math Velasquez, and
settling in Cuba, he evinced such talent and energy, that on a
proposition of sending an armament to possess a rich country
to the west, which had been visited by Grijalva, Cortez
was appointed to command the expedition ; and six years
after Nunez de Balboa had discovered from the mountain
heights, the great Pacific, Cortez set sail from St. Jago in
151.8. Cuba for Yucatan. It was at night, with a fleet half-manned
showSeZii an(^ half-equipped, and without ceremony of leave-taking, that
energy of his Hernando Cortez set forth on an expedition which gave a new
character. empjre to Spain. Cortez had learned that Velasquez, grown
jealous, was about to supersede him in the command, after he
had embarked all his fortune and hopes in the enterprize.
12. There was reigning in Mexico, Montezuma, the powerful
sovereign of the Aztecs, or principal tribe of the country; and
Cortez met a people more civilized than any the Spaniards had
before found in the New World. Mexico was a great and rich
city, as was Tetzuco and several others. But the blighting curse
of a terrible superstition was upon them. A cruel priesthood had
made them submit to a discipline by which their very souls
that inoned were subjugated. For their bloody war-god they demanded
place 100,000 human sacrifices, which they offered in a manner shocking be-
sSmsSwere" yor,d expression, and in astonishing numbers. The flesh of
counted.) these human victims, the Mexicans cooked and ate ! ate it at
their feasts, and made merry. And the different tribes had
perpetual wars with each other to get a supply of victims for
these sacrifices. It is not wonderful, that such a nation was
ripe for divine retribution. Cortez was made the human in-
strument.
13. Montezuma, in his lake-encircled capital, was by his re-
gular couriers advised, from the first, of the arrival and move-
ments of the Spaniards. Doubtful whether they were human
beings, or the descendants of a benevolent deity, whom their
his landing traditions had taught them to expect ; he wavered between giv-
foundatlon m£ tnem welcome as friends, or resistance as enemies. The
of vera latter, however, would have been his only safety. The Spaniards
ruz'^ came to plunder his wealth and possess his kingdom; and no
consideration of gratitude or kindness would have stayed their
11. Who was Hernando Cortez? What was done, and by whom, in
reference to colonizing Cuba ? What had Cortez f.o do with this colony ?
By whom was the Pacific ocean first discovered ? What was done by Gri-
jalva ? What was the manner of Cortez's leaving St. Jago ? Why did he
thus ? 12. What sovereign was on the throne of Mexico ? What kind of a
people did Cortez find ? What was the character of their religion and reli-
gious rites ? Were they cannibals ? — 13. What were the opinions, and what
was the conduct of Montezuma ?
THE LAST KINGS OF MEXICO. 307
unrighteous course. Montezuma sent to Cortez a magnificent Modern iris
present, a mock sun of burnished gold — a moon of massy silver, period i.
and rich mantles, curiously wrought of the many-tinted feathers chap. h.
of their bright birds, — with fruits and flowers; but the emperor ^c^n^x^
forbade their approach to his capital. This present excited Montezuma
their avarice, and lessened their fears. Cortez told the Mexicans sentsSfrom
the Spaniards wanted gold ; they had a disease of the heart tJIpe|ic;J)nti0
which nothing else would relieve ! To keep his followers from ards on the
looking back, Cortez burned his fleet. Fertile in mental re- coast'
sources — sleepless in vigilance, and staunch in determination,
he then swept through the country with an army of about 600
men ; sometimes fighting against odds which would be quite in-
credible, but for artillery, of which the Mexicans had no pre-
vious knowledge, and cavalry, which equally surprised and
frightened them, they supposing that the horse and his rider
were one.
14. Arrived at his capital, Montezuma came out to meet the
Spaniards ; — received, fed, and lodged them, as the descendants of
gods. But Cortez believing that he was plotting to destroy them,
took advantage of the frank courtesy of the sovereign, — seized
his person, and conveyed him to the extensive building as-
signed to the Spaniards. The Mexicans were horror stricken ;
for with them the person of their emperor was sacred. Cortez
through him, held them for a time in check. But at length, as KjJJJ*
the king appeared upon a balcony to say what Cortez had dictated, tezuma re-
they attempted to kill him. He then died voluntarily.! Gua- fanddgfave'
tamozin, his nephew, succeeded him ; and had the natives been himself up to
united, his talents and devotion would have saved his country; SpIobabiye
but they fought against each other, and the Spaniards took their Jjj account
sovereign prisoner. To make him discover into what part of of his
the lake his riches were thrown, they stretched him, with a faith- wounds-)
ful adherent, over burning coals. He turned to his master a be-
seeching look, and Guatamozin replied to it — " Am I taking Co~^r ^fr3
my pleasure." Not being able to shake his constancy, Cortez to Spain,
took the sovereign from torture, but afterwards hanged him. 154©.
Having fully subjugated the country, he returned to Spain, spainforthe
Charles V. sent him over again, but with diminished authority. Dfe*\j2jJ2ui
Although in his declining years the emperor treated him coldly, 1547.
yet he ennobled his posterity.
15. Francis Pizarro, who went as a soldier of fortune to
the West Indies, having obtained some knowledge of Peru, re- 1529.
turned to Spain to solicit authority and means to undertake its aSorSed
conquest. He obtained the authority, but could not procure the to take Pent.
13. What present did he send! What effect had it ? What disease did
Cortez say the Spaniards had ? What did Cortez do to prevent his men
from thinking of going back ? What was the number of the Spanish army ?
What is said of the encounters of Cortez with the natives ? 1*. When they
arrived at Mexico how did Montezuma meet them ? What was the behavior
of Cortez ? What the fate of Montezuma ? Who was his successor ? What
hindered his expelling the Spaniards? How did Cortez treat Guatamozin?
Relate the remaining history of Cortez. — 15. Who was Francis Pizarro?
For what did he return to Spain ?
308
THE CONQUEST OP PERU.
Modern His.
1581,
February.
Pizarro sails
from
Panama.
Takes
Peru by
treachery.
1541.
June 6.
Righteous
retribution.
money, till meeting Cortez, he furnished him the necessary-
funds to equip a small armament. With three light vessels and
180 soldiers, Pizarro, with his associate d'Almagrq, sailed from
Panama to conquer Peru. He landed, and at Tumbez received a
small reinforcement. In Peru he met people of nearly the same
degree of civilization as those in Mexico, and here too, was a
divided empire. Between Hue scar, the legitimate, and Ata-
haulpa, the reigning Inca or sovereign, was a war in which
Pizarro immediately engaged, affecting to take the part of Ata-
haulpa. By his party the Spanish leader was introduced into
the heart of the country; where the mild and amiable people re-
ceived him in state, as the ambassador of a great monarch. He
treacherously attacked them, and made Atahaulpa prisoner, who
offered for his ransom a room full of gold. After Pizarro had
received it, the faithless robber put the Inca to a cruel death ;
and subjugated and oppressed the country. Pizarro and Alma-
gro quarrelled, the army divided, and, in a battle, Pizarro took
as prisoner and afterwards executed, his former friend. By the
son of Almagro, Pizarro was himself assassinated.
CHAPTER III.
1492.
Charles
VIII. of
France
claims
Naples.
Italy the subject of contention, and seat of war-
1. A war now commenced, the seat of which was Italy, but
which engaged several of the great powers. Its first object
was the sovereignty of Naples, which, as we have before seen,
had been long contested between the French and Spanish.
The throne was claimed by Charles VIII. of France, though
occupied by Ferdinand II., a prince of the illegitimate house
of Arragon. Charles, though the son of Louis XI., who wished
him to learn little else than his favorite maxim, " he who knows
not how to dissemble, knows not how to reign ;" had yet quite
other views of the beau-ideal of royalty. He had read romances,
and his head was turned with the belief that he was des-
tined to become a great conqueror. Ludovico Sforza, " the
Moor," now duke of Milan, who wanted the aid of the French
in the civil broils in which he was engaged, artfully wrought
15. How did he succeed in his application ? From whom did he procure
money ? When and under what circumstances did he sail from Panama ?
In what respects did this kingdom resemble Mexico ? What division
was here respecting sovereigns ? Whose part did Pizarro pretend to take,
and how did he treat him ? How did he reward their kindness to the Inca
and the people? What was the fate of the two partners in wickedness,
Pizarro and Almagro ?
Chap. III. — 1. What is here said of a coming war? Between what
powers had the sovereignty of Naples been contested ? Was Charles VIII.
like his father ?
THE FIRST DIPLOMATIC LEAGUE.
309
upon his foible ; and Charles, after making arrangements to propi-
tiate Ferdinand of Spain, by relinquishing to him Roussillon, an
important province, invaded Italy at the head of a large army.
All the Italian powers were alarmed, and even Sforza was sur-
prised at the result of his intrigue ; but, as no effectual opposi-
tion was made, Charles swept through northern Italy ; and
achieved the conquest of Naples without the shedding of blood.
He was, however, at little pains either to conciliate the people,
or to establish his government ; while the licentious manners of
the French rendered the Neapolitans wholly averse to their
dominion. Meanwhile the jealousy of the surrounding nations
was excited by the grasping ambition of the emperor. Ferdinand
of- Spain had an eye to the future possession of Naples himself,
and notwithstanding his treaty, he, through his diplomatic
agents, stirred up against Charles the " League of Venice," me-
morable as being the first alliance in Europe pointing to the
principle of confederacy. By this league Ferdinand of Spain, the
pope Alexander VI., the emperor Maximilian, the republics of
Venice and Milan, (for the double-dealing Sforza was in it,)
agreed together to expel the French from Italy. Charles, on
learning this, left a governor in Naples, and garrisons in the
principal towns, — inarched to meet the confederate armies, and
encountered them near Parma, where a battle ensued. Though
his enemies had nearly double his force, he obtained a partial
victory ; but was obliged to retreat to France, with but little the
air of a conqueror.
2. Ferdinand II., the reigning king, took advantage of his
retreat to recover Naples ; and was aided by the great Spanish
captain Gonsalvo de Cordova, who was sent to his aid by Fer-
dinand of Spain. By their united efforts the French were driven
from Italy. The king of Naples died, and was succeeded by
his uncle, Frederic Pope Alexander VI. received the great
captain after his successes with honor ; but, in a personal
interview, spoke against his master. The captain boldly de-
fended him, and plainly told the pope, that he had better reform
his own scandalous life. The death of Charles VIII., who left
no sons, was followed by the elevation of the Duke of Orleans,
Louis XII. to the throne of France. He immediately asserted
a right to the Duchy of Milan, through his grandmother, Va-
lentina Visconti, and revived the claims of the house of Anjou
upon the crown of Naples. By various incitements, he allured
pope Alexander VI., the Venetians, and the Florentines, to his
interest. He then marched into Italy, and achieved the con-
Modern His-
1494.
Charles
takes pos-
session of
Naples.
1495:
League of
Venice,
against
Charles
VIII.
PARMA.
Charles
VIII. de-
feats the
allies.
(The dowa-
ger queen
Anne of
Brittany
now mar-
ries her
youthful
choice,
Louis
XII., who
gets a di-
vorce from
Joan the
deformed,
daughter of
Louis XL)
1499.
Louis XII.
conquers
Milan.
1. Who played upon the vanity of Charles to incite him to attack Italy?
What treaty did he first make with Ferdinand of Spain ? How did he suc-
ceed in his invasion of Naples ? What was his subsequent conduct ? What
league was formed against him ? — 2. What was done by Ferdinand of Na-
ples ? Who was sent by Ferdinand of Spain to his assistance ? Relate
what happened between him and the pope ? Who succeeded Ferdinand of
Naples ? Who succeeded Charles VIII. of France ? What claims were
made, and what was done by Louis XII. ? What powers joined him ?
310 THE MOST WARLIKE OP THE POPES.
Modem ills. quest 0f Milan, almost without a blow. Sforza was eventually
period I. taken, and ended his days an unpitied prisoner in France.
chap. in. 3# Louis next set himself to the recovery of Naples ; and for
K~*~^~>*~/ this object formed an alliance with Ferdinand of Spain, who did
not scruple, thus, by a secret treaty, to plot against his relation
Frederic, while openly he professed to aid him against the
1500. French. The kingdom of Naples was to be divided, the French
league of king to have the northern, and the Spanish the southern portion;
Partition, and each to conquer his own division. This treaty prepared
the way for bloody and lasting wars ; the French and Spanish
(Gonsaivo portions not being defined, each nation claimed the central parts,
of the abfest While Gonsaivo de Cordova was already pushing the war in
et"fet?mes°f ^7? Ferdinand was amusing Louis with negotiations. When
and author the Spanish troops had made themselves masters of Naples,
°f nTenrt°sVe" Louis being sensible that he had been duped, prepared to attack
in sapping Ferdinand with vigor, and to carry the war both into Spain and
mining.) j^jy gut despite his efforts, the Spaniards remained masters
of the whole kingdom.
Po*??u1ius ^' Meantime a change in the views of the popedom had
ii. ' taken place. The death of Alexander VI. was followed by the
died a horrid election of Julius II. This pontiff, not satisfied with the en-
death by gines which his sacred character put into his hands, to bend
dririkmgthe kings to his will, sunk that character in the ambition to rival
} PJis0.n hed tnose kings in the extent of his temporal dominions ; and in
foranoTher.) intrigue, and martial achievement, he proved the master spirit of
his day. His object was to extend the popedom over all Italy.
150§> The power of Venice must first be humbled. To effect this,
ALeagueof Julian entered into an alliance, called the " League of Cambray,"
Cambray, with Louis of France, and Maximilian of Germany. The only
Venice"!!! complamt °f these sovereigns was, that the people against
basely whom they confederated had no king, and thus they stirred up
crushed. tke enVy Qf those who had. The Venetians could not with-
stand their power. After losing a battle, they gave up their
possessions on the continent, and retreated to their city.
1510- 5. Julius determining to expel every foreign power from Italy,
1st "Holy now found means to draw the Venetians into an alliance against
League" France. Spain and Switzerland soon joined the " Holy League."
FranS Louis dispatched a powerful army into Italy, under the com-
raven- mand of his gallant nephew, Gaston de Foix. After brilliant
Gaston" de successes, this young hero penetrated to Ravenna, — there en-
Foixvicto- countered the troops of the allies, and completely defeated
(His young them : but he fell in battle, and with him fell the fortunes of
the French. They were driven out of Milan, and Sforza, the
sister, Ger-
maine se-
cond wife to son of Ludomco* regained the ducal throne. Meanwhile Fer
^-dina-J
Cat
lie.)
the catho- dinand of Spain made himself master of Navarre, which he
3. What shameful treaty was now made between Charles XII. and Fer-
dinand the Catholic? Who again commanded the Spaniards in Italy?
How did the French king bear his disappointment in regard to his part of
Naples? — 4-. Give an account of Julius II. Of the league of Cambray.
What complaints had those allies to make of Venice? — 5. What new
league did the system of diplomacy next produce ? What battle occurred
in consequence ? What conquest was made by Ferdinand of Spain ?
CHARLES V.
311
conquered from John d'Albret, a nobleman of France, in alli-
ance with Louis, who became sovereign of that kingdom by
marriage with its heiress.
6. The death of pope Julius, at this period, changed the
aspect of things. His successor, the accomplished Leo X., of
the house of Medici, showed himself friendly to France. The
death of Louis XII. occurred shortly after that of pope Julius.
Leaving only a daughter, the crown of France descended to his
cousin, Francis I. This popular prince was distinguished for
the manly beauty of his countenance and person, the suavity of
his manner, his valor and ambition, rather than for the sound-
ness of his mind. Bent on the recovery of Milan, he assem-
bled a large army, and led them in person across the Alps. At
Marignan he encountered the Swiss in the service of the Mi-
lanese, fought and won a bloody battle. The duchy of Milan
submitted ; and its duke, Maximilian Sforza, abandoned his
claim to its sovereignty, and in exchange received a pension
from France. Leo X. now made peace with France, and Eu-
rope for a short season enjoyed a general tranquillity.
7. The death of Ferdinand, king of Spain, was followed by
the elevation of his grandson, Charles V., then sixteen years
of age, the son of Philip the Handsome, and the unfortunate
Joanna. From his maternal grand-parents, he inherited Spain
and Navarre ; from his paternal, Austria and the Netherlands.
About two years after the elevation of Charles to the sovereignty
of Spain, the death of his grandfather, the emperor Maximilian,
left the imperial throne vacant, and presented a source of com-
petition between Charles and Francis0 Both offered themselves
as candidates. The electors very naturally preferred the claims
of Charles, who was a prince of German origin, and heir to
the Austrian possessions, to those of a foreigner, who was not
even acquainted with their language. At another period they
might have been jealous of concentrating so much authority in
one man ; but at this time they felt the need of a powerful so-
vereign to defend them from the alarming power of the Turks.
Charles, therefore, was elected emperor of Germany.
8. It was not long before the disappointed Francis found
pretexts for hostilities. He presented claims to Naples, and
required the restoration of Navarre to its hereditary prince, as
an ally of France. Charles, on the other hand, revived his
claim upon Burgundy, which he averred had been unjustly
wrested from his grandmother, Mary of Burgundy, by Louis
XI.; and he claimed Milan as a fief of the German empire.
Both monarchs made preparation for war, and strengthened
Modem His.
Francis
1515.
MARIO-
JYAAT.
Francis I.
defeats the
Milanese
and reco-
vers Milan.
1516.
Charles V.
152®.
Charles
elected em-
peror.
Rival
claims.
6. Who succeeded Julius II.? Who Louis XII. ? For what was hedis-
tmguished ? What success did he obtain ? — 7. Who succeeded Ferdinand
the Catholic ? Who were his parents ? Who were his father's parents, and
what possessions did he inherit from them ? Consider the preceding his-
tory, and relate also who were his mother's parents, and what he derived
from them. What two competitors had the electors to decide between, in
their choice of an emperor, and how did ihey decide ? — 8. What claims
were now set up by the two rival princes, Charles and Francis ?
312
THE TRAITOR BOURBON.
Modern His.
England ap-
pealed to.
1520.
Francis re-
leased
by the
Treaty of
Madrid.
1526.
2d "Holy
League"
against
Charles V.
(When the
duke of
Uourbon vi-
sited Spain
Charles V.
desired one
of the nobles
to accom-
modate him.
He said,
"certainly,
Sire,butyou
must not be
surprized if
I burn my
castle as
soon as the
traitor
leaves it.")
themselves by alliances. The French were unsuccessful, and
were expelled from Milan. Francesco Sforza, brother of the
late duke, was raised to the duchy, which he held as a fief
of the German empire. Francis was meanwhile perplexed by
the defection of one of his most important subjects, a man of
splendid talents, as well as of powerful connections. This was
Charles, duke of Bourbon, constable of the kingdom ; who,
from a quarrel with the queen-mother, abandoned the service
of his country, and in a spirit of revenge, entered tliat of the
emperor.
9. The French king, having successfully repelled an invasion
of Provence by the forces of the imperialists, marched in person
at the head of an army into Italy ; and besieged Pavia. A division
of the opposing army, under the duke of Bourbon, attacked, de-
feated, and made him prisoner. Francis wrote to his mother,
" Madam, all is lost but our honor." France was filled with
dismay, and the other allied powers with surprise and grief.
Francis- was conveyed to Spain. His reception in that kingdom
gave to Charles the character of an ungenerous and unfeeling
rival. Henry VIII. of England, who had previously been in
alliance with Charles, now entered into a treaty with the queen-
mother, Louisa of Savoy, who was regent of France, by which
he pledged himself to a defensive alliance with that kingdom,
and to the exertion of his power in procuring the release of
the captive monarch. Charles at last became thoroughly alarm-
ed by the discovery that Francis had resolved to resign his
crown, and was taking measures to carry his purpose into effect.
He then negotiated with his prisoner the peace styled "the
Treaty of Madrid," by which he was released ; but the condi-
tions were hard; and, as Francis had planned, the states refused
to ratify the treaty, and the pope absolved the monarch from
his oath.
10. Leo X. was succeeded by Clement VII., also of the
house of Medici. This pope, the Venetians, and the duke of
Milan, now formed a league with Francis against the emperor,
and. induced Henry VIII., of England, to become its protector.
This was termed a " Holy League," the pope being at its
head. The duke of Bourbon again received the command of
the imperial forces in Italy, and before the arrival of reinforce-
ments to the confederates from France, he took Milan, plun-
dered and overran the territory, and advanced upon Rome.
The pope, alarmed, shut himself up in the castle of St. Angelo.
Bourbon prepared to storm the city, but while mounting the
8. What was done at Milan ? Which of the generals of Francis now
turned traitor to him ? — 9. Relate the operations of Francis in Italy. The
battle of Pavia and its consequences. How was Francis treated by Charles ?
To what power did Louisa the qeeen regent apply, and what alliance was
formed ? By what treaty, and on what kind of terms was Francis liberated ?
How did he fulfil them ? — lO. Give an account of the Holy League. Who
headed its forces ? What reply did one of the grandees of Spain make to
the sovereign, when asked to lodge the duke de Bourbon ? (See side note.)
What bold measures were immediately taken by the emperor's forces ?
:' LA PAIX DES DAMES." 3l3
wall was slain. His army continued the assault, took Rome, ■M''"fer'i His-
and a scene of pillage, bloodshed and rapine succeeded, un- period i.
equalled even in the conquests of the Goths. The imperial chap. m.
arm)* remained in possession of the city two months, retaining ^-^v-*v^
the pope a prisoner. Charles, with characteristic dissimulation,
affected the utmost sorrow at the captivity of the " holy father,"
and ordered a general mourning upon an occasion at which, in
his heart, he rejoiced.
11. Meantime, Henry VIII. of England, again alanned, was
excited against the emperor by the continued successes of his 1525.
arms, and by the indignity offered to the pope; and he was en- (Henry vm.
couraged in these feelings by the famous cardinal Wolset, who ° sides?
believed himself to have been excluded from the pontificate by f^rite
Charles. Henry, therefore, now joined the Holy League, and his book
was complimented by being made its protector. Lautrec, com- a?her,Sand
maiider of the united armies, made himself master of Genoa and the P°Re
Pavia, and from thence advanced towards Rome. On the ap- "Defender
proach of the confederated army, the emperor liberated the pope. F?f.th?M
Lautrec then invaded the kingdom of Naples, and besieged the
city with every prospect of success.
12. At this juncture, the French king, by some regulations Andrew Do-
likely to affect the commerce of Genoa, offended the commander pajherofhia
of the Genoese fleet, who was blockading Naples. This was Country.''
Andrew Doria, called " the Father of his Country," for his dis- 15*29-
interested services in changing and improving the government of ''Til?
Genoa; thus encountering personal danger, and refusing reward Ladies'
or preferment. Doria drew off the Genoese fleet, leaving the PefUsC
port free, when fresh troops and provisions arrived in aid of CanibraY."'
the citizens, and Lautrec was compelled to raise the siege. In (Margaret
the north of Italy, similar bad fortune attended the arms of the sister of Phi-
confederates. By this time, both Charles and Francis were *£j^J"
weary of war. Charles had difficulties to contend with in his married
German dominions, which demanded all his energies. The spJa0in"hav-
monarchs. therefore, gave their sanction to peace, called •' The in? been
Ladles' Peace," it having been negotiated at Cambray. by two "charies
women of much ability, Louisa, the queen mother, and Marga-
ret of Austria, the aunt of Charles. By this arrangement, Francis
relinquished a claim upon the sovereignty of Flanders and ^/gavo1?)
Artois.
13. The Reformation had spread extensively in the empire,
and threatened to subvert the authority of the pope. Charles, The Refor-
though a bigoted adherent of the Roman church, had been com- matron.
pelled, by the war with France, to leave the Germans in the
10. Relate the'capture of Rome. What happened to the pope, and what
did Charles in consequence? — 11. What part was the king of England
taking in these continen*al affairs, and by whose instigation? What new
treaty was formed ? Who commanded the confederated armies of France
and Eng'and ? What was done by them ? — 12. In what manner did the
French king give offence, and to whom ? What honorable title did Andrew
Doria obtain, and for what services ? How did Doria resent the injury done
his country by the French ? What effect had this on the arms of the con-
federates ? What peace was now negotiated, and by whom ?
40
VIII. She
was now
the widow
314 PIRATICAL KINGDOM OF THE BARBAROSSAS.
Modem His. exercise of their opinions ; but he was desirous of .interposing
his authority for the suppression of heresy. T*he empire was
in great danger from the Turks, who had already invaded
Hungary, and now menaced the Austrian dominions. To ob-
tain the assistance of the protestants against the Turks, Charles
affected great moderation. Solyman, the Turkish sultan, en-
invasion of tered Hungary at the head of 300,000 men. Charles assem-
the Turks, bled from different parts of the empire a well-disciplined regular
force of 90,000 foot, and 20,000 horse, besides many irregulars.
The emperor himself, for the first time, took the command in
person. No battle was fought ; but after manoeuvring through
a summer campaign, Solyman, overawed, relinquished his pro-
posed invasion, and retraced his steps to Constantinople.
14. Charles now returned to Spain, and prepared for an ex-
pedition against' the Barbary states. Aruch Barbarossa and
his brother Hayraddin, from being commanders of a fleet of
pirates, had made themselves the terror of all the countries on
the shores of the Mediterranean. They ravaged the coasts of
„,,_ Italy, and invaded the kingdom of Tunis, which they conquered,
Charies'goes and drove a way its king. The exiled prince applied to Charles
against the for aid, and the emperor gladly entered upon a war which might
states. Re- rid him of piractical neighbors* and in the eyes of all Christen-
Iechrta?an°° ^om ^e5 m trutn5 a h°ty expedition. He collected a veteran
slaves, army, and with a fleet of nearly five hundred vessels sailed for
Africa. Aruch being now dead, Hayraddin put himself under
the protection of the Turks, drew together the Moorish and
Arabian forces of the different African princes, to whom he re-
presented the invasion as an attack upon all Mussulmen. Not-
withstanding this formidable resistance, the expedition of the
emperor proved successful. The conquest of Tunis, the release
of twenty thousand Christian slaves, and the check given to the
piratical power, were truly glorious to Charles ; and called forth
the applause and admiration of the civilized world.
15. The absence of the emperor in Africa, seemed to Francis
a fit opportunity for renewing the war. The trial and execu-
tion of his envoy at the court of Milan, for the murder of one
of the duke's domestics, afforded a pretext. Having obtained
1533. the countenance of the pope by the marriage of his son
Henrjfii? Henry, with the niece of the pontiff, Catharine de Medici,
Francis re- he dispatched an army into Italy and took possession of the
vvaTand territories of the duke of Savoy, an ally of the emperor, almost
takes without opposition. The death of Sforza without heirs, now
avoy. occurring, Francis renewed his claim to the duchy of Milan.
Charles, in the meantime, returned successful from his African
expedition, and flattered himself that he might add France to
his other conquests. He invaded it, and was pressing forward
13. What affairs pressed upon the emperor at this time? Relate the
movements of the Turks? — J 4. Who were the authors of the piracies of
the Barbary states ? Relate the emperor's expedition against them? — 15.
What was done by Francis to strengthen his cause with the pope ? What
in reference to Milan ? What measures of retaliation were taken by Charles \
THE PEACE OF CRESP1. 315
with vigor. Francis prudently resolved to maintain only a de- Modem His.
fensive warfare. He directed his general, Montmorenci, who period i.
commanded in the south of France, to lay waste the country chap. iv.
on which the emperor must depend for subsistence. By pursuing ^-*»^v^^-/
this Fabian mode of warfare, he rendered the attempts of the Charles in-
imperial forces entirely unsuccessful. France.
16. Francis, in the meantime, gained a temporary advan- 1536.
tage, but ultimately hurt his cause, by negotiating with the Ot- grands
toman sultan, and thus putting all Christendom in jeopardy, league with
Solyman dispatched an army into Hungary, which defeated the 11essek'
Germans in a great battle at Essek, on the Drave, and sent his The Turks
fleet under Barbarossa to the coast of Italy ;— the Turks landed Germans!
near Tarento, ravaged the country, and retired. The feelings
of all the Christian powers were outraged by this union. Ten years'
Most creditable efforts were made by the pope to effect a peace. truce be-
Both monarchs greatly desired it, yet the terms could not be chadesTand
settled. At last a truce of ten years was agreed upon. Francis.
17. During the period of this truce, Charles wished to pass
through France to the Netherlands, to suppress an insurrection
of the citizens of Ghent. He hesitated whether he should trust chadelgoes
himself to the power of the French king. The generosity of .» second
Francis' character, and his chivalric notions of honor, induced VhTplfate?
him to make the trial. He was received with regal hospitality,
and conducted safely through his rival's dominions. Charles
suppressed the insurrection, and inflicted rigorous punishments
upon the inhabitants of Ghent, his native city. During this
year, he made a second expedition against the pirates, which
was disastrous and unsuccessful. Meantime, his obstinate re- jj,°i „*
fusal to grant to Francis the investiture of Milan, caused the crpm\
truce to be broken. For two years, war raged in France and Betwfen
Spain, Italy and the Netherlands with all its concomitant hor- Charles and
rors, but without any decisive result. A treaty of peace was cioseTtneii
at length concluded at Crespi, in which Charles made several contention,
concessions.
CHAPTER IV.
The Reformation.
1. The corruptions of the Romish church, and the despotic
power which the popes exercised, had frequently produced
15. What course was directed by Francis, and what was the result? —
16. What very reprehensible measure had Francis taken? What was
done by Solyman? What by the pope? What arrangement was all that
could be effected ? — IT. What example of chivalric honour is here related ?
What acts are related of Charles ? Tell where were two years of war and
bloodshed, and tell if you can for what? In what year was peace made,
and where ?
316 MARTIN LUTHER.
Modern His. controversies between the pontiffs, and the different sovereigns
of Christendom. In many instances, individuals too, of un-
common penetration and courage, remonstrated. An instance
of this, within the church, was given by Roger Bacon's friend,
1253. whom, he said, was the most learned man in Europe, Robert
that among Grostete, (or Greathead,) bishop of Lincoln. Innocent IV.
theyaiieys commanded him to give an office in the church to his nephew,
the follow- a child, five years old. This zealous and honest Christian wrote
erSWaidoter to tne P°Pe> " That when the benefices intended for able pastors
found lone were given to those incapable of performing pastoral duties, it
churched was a crime hateful to God, and hurtful to men, and if com-
withthe' mitted by the Holy See, would forfeit all its glory, and plunge
their guide, it into the pains of hell I'1 The pope, on reading the letter, ex-
with which claimed, a How dare this doating old fool to write thus to me f
lesced. Is not his master, the king of England, my subject, or rather
Tvai lenses'* my slave ?" Such, however, was the weight of the bishop's
maintained character, that he was not molested ; and on his death bed, he
faShhad de- declared his belief, that the reigning pope was antichrist. When
scended such discontents were among men whom the church exalted,
theprimi- much more were they found among those, who, without any
tti«8St ■ ^avor? were trodden down by its gigantic power. The Wal-
joim Huss Senses, Wickliffe, Huss, and Jerome of Prague had borne their
and Jerome testimony, and although they had passed away, the leaven of
rague. ^e^ doctrines was still working in the public mind. The re-
vival of letters had awakened a spirit of enquiry, and the influ-
ences of the art of printing began to be felt.
Nov^io ®* MARTIN Luther was destined to exercise an influence on
1483. human opinion almost miraculous, in destroying the curse of
AMEislfbid"' a som,"blighting despotism. To his mother, Luther attributed
electorate of his early bent to religious devotion, by which, though educated
Saxony. f0T a iaWyer, he became an Augustine monk. He had a friend
struck dead by lightning at his side, which also affected his
mind. In the spirit of his order he wrought in menial occupa-
tions ; and even begged through the streets of Wittenberg in
Luther finds Saxony, with a bag at his back. He had never, at this time,
llle ^y,e- perused the Scriptures ; but finding a neglected Latin copy in
the library of his convent, he read and studied it ; and his
soul kindled with new energies, as he saw how truth had
been wronged by ignorant piety, and hypocritical infidelity,
induigeri- Indulgences, when first they were sold to raise money for the
cessoidto crusades, were but the commutation of prescribed penances;
forStnT°cru- now they implied a release from the guilt of sin, and the ven-
sades. geance of Heaven ; and Leo X. employed the sale to raise
money to pay a debt, and to complete the mighty edifice of St.
Chap. IV. — 1. Did the corruptions of the church, and the despotism of
the pope pass unnoticed ? Give some account of Robert Grostete, bishop
of Lincoln. Who are mentioned as having borne their testimony and passed
away ? — 2. What is said of Martin Luther? To what did he attribute the
bent of his mind towards a religious life ? What further excited him ? How
did he spend his time in his convent ? What is said concerning his acquain-
tance with the scriptures? When were indulgences first sold? What did
they imply at this time ? For what purpose, and by whom were they sold ?
THE FIRST SOUND OF THE REFORMATION.
317
Peter's church. Tetzel, a Dominician friar, impudent, from
the inquisitorial power of his order, employed his ensnaring
eloquence to persuade the people to purchase indulgences.
Luther had prepared himself to deliver a course of lectures on
Scripture repentance, which led him to examine and detect this
mystery of iniquity ; and he took ground against the Domini-
can. Tetzel threatened him with the inquisition, and, with a
word, he might then have delivered him to its fires ; — but Luther
had a work to do and he was preserved. He had acquired such
reputation that he was made professor of theology, in a university
which the Elector of Saxony had founded at Wittenberg. He
applied himself more and more to scripture studies, and wrote
" Ninety-five Propositions," after the scholastic forms, denounc-
ing the doctrines of purgatory, penance, and indulgences ; —
hung them on a church door in Wittenberg, and invited a pub-
lic disputation. His challenge not being accepted he published
his " Propositions?'' Thus went forth to the world, the first
sound of the Reformation.
3. So wonderful was the effect produced on the public mind
in Germany, that Tetzel now found himself in a condition
rather to fear force than to use it ; for the hearts of the peo-
ple were with Luther. To recover his ground with the public,
Tetzel published an answer to Luther, in one hundred and
fifty-six propositions ; but as they were based on the infallibility
of the pope, while Luther derived his proofs from Scripture, the
question was still left open. Tetzel, in an assembly of Monks,
burnt Luther's book ; — the students of the university of Wit-
tenberg, took public ground in the contest, by burning that of
Tetzel. The court of Rome became alarmed, and from thence-
forth used its mighty power to crush Luther, and were unable.
Cardinal Cajetan was sent to Germany, and gave money to
the needy Maximilian, who publicly requested the pope to ex-
tinguish the new heresy. Luther was forthwith summoned to
Rome. Delivered, as he now was by the emperor, to papal
vengeance, he became as a thing accursed by the church and
the state. But he had friends in his God, and in his own genius,
and he did not despair. His keen understanding pointed to him
Frederic, elector or Saxony, as a protector. The elector's
vote was important to the wishes of Maximilian, in favor of his
grandson Charles V. as his successor to the empire ; and Luther
sought and obtained his protection. Instead of going to Rome,
he was allowed, at the elector's request, to appear for trial be-
fore a council at Augsburg. Finding his destruction resolved on,
he escaped from his enemies, and returned to Wittenberg.
2. How did it providentially occur that Luther was prepared to detect
and expose this wickedness ? What was Tetzel's power, and how did he
threaten Luther? What did Luther in respect to his Propositions? — 3.
How was Luther's publication received? In what situation did this place
Tetzel, and what course did he take ? How did the students of Witten-
berg take ground in the contest ? What was done by the pope ? How did
cardinal Catejan succeed with Maximilian ? What was Luther's condition
and his course ? To what place did he go, and whence return ?
Modern His-
His famous
ninety-five
Proposi-
tions.
The begin-
in g of the
Reforma-
tion.
151S.
August 7th,
Luther sum-
moned to
Rome.
Diet of
Augsburg.
318
DIET OF WORMS.
Modern His. 4 After this Luther openly propagated his opinions. The
pope published against him a bull of excommunication. Luther
hod a pile erected, on which he publicly burned it ! His in-
trepidity proved his safety, and that of his cause; for com-
mon minds confide, where great courage is displayed. Charles
V. succeeding to the German empire, he convoked an assembly
of its princes, the first ever held, to meet at Worms, in order
to put down the new doctrines. Before this august tribunal,
Assembly of wnere tne stern emperor himself was to preside, Luther was
the princes summoned ; — and to this, in spite of the remonstrances of his
*e5i§0* friends, he said he would go, "though there were as many
devils in Worms as there were tiles on the houses." The elec-
tor had procured for him the emperor's safe-conduct for a cer-
tain number of days. Luther's entrance into Worms showed
the intense and favorable interest he excited. The papal throne
and the German empire was, — so God appointed, — shaken
by the one mind enshrined within that monk, whom a dense
and almost impenetrable human mass were straining to behold, —
as bare-headed, and in an open carriage, he rode into Worms.
Luther appeared calm and respectful in the presence of his
judges. " Are you the author of these books," he was asked.
«o-a ^e replied, " I am." " Will you," was the next demand, "re-
Luther ap- tract the opinions herein expressed." To this he answered,
pears before that he desired time for consideration. After two day's re-
Worms, flection, he again appeared before the princes and firmly gave
his negative. " Unless, said he, J shall be convinced by Scrip-
ture, (for I can put no faith in popes and councils, as it is evi-
dent that they have frequently erred, and even contradicted each
other,) unless my conscience shall be convinced by the word
of God, I neither will, or can recant; since it is unworthy of an
honest man to act contrary to his own conviction. Here I
stand ; it is impossible for me to act otherwise — so help me
God."
1521- &m His boldness was taken by Charles as an affront ; and the
Luther in ban of the empire was added by the emperor to the excommu-
cMtie?nefr nication of the pope ; so that Luther would be an outlaw the
Eisenach, in moment his safe-conduct should expire. The elector Frederic
(Luthfr** caused him, as he was returning to Wittenberg, to be seized
wears the Dy armed men, and forcibly conveyed, as a place of conceal-
knight, and ment, to the castle of Wartburg. Luther here performed the
writings great work of translating the scriptures into the German Ian-
from Pat- guage ; and through his amiable friend, the eloquent Melanc-
mos.)
4. Having escaped from Augsburg, what did he do at Wittenberg ?
What was next done by the pope ? What did Luther? On the accession
of Charles V. what measure was taken against the Reformation? What
was this assembly called ? (See side note.) Could Luther's friends dis-
suade him from obeying the summons of the emperor ? Give an account
of his entrance into Worms. Of his appearance before the tribunal. What
was the first question and reply? What was the second, and the reply to
that? — 5. What effect did Luther's boldness produce on the emperor?
What measure was taken by the good elector to save the life of Luther?
What did he accomplish during his concealment ?
THE REFORMERS ARE CALLED PROTESTANTS. 3 19
thon, he communicated many treatises for the public press. Modern H™-
While Luther was still under a sentence of death, which any periodiT
one who met him was at liberty to execute, he sallied forth chap. iv.
from his confinement, — returned, and was joyfully received at s^^~s/^^^
Wittenberg, where he exerted himself to compose the differences <In l|?® cas-
which had arisen among the friends of the Reformation. burg, in the
6. Adrian VI. who succeeded Leo X., published a declaration, p\ed%yCLu-
in which, — intending to reform the church, he says, " many abo- ther, is
minable acts have been committed for several years past in this ffklpot an
holy chair; and we shall endeavor that our court, from which, the wall,
perhaps, all this evil has proceeded, shall undergo a speedy re- been°madee
form." The German princes, some of whom were Catholics, , by.nis, .
, ,. , x \ „ «,.... - ■ , throwing his
drew up a list to be transmitted to Kome,oi the iniquities of the inkstand at
priesthood, and the evils of the church system ; and requested, a ^hichhe"1
for the purpose of adopting measures of reform, the calling of a fancied
general council. These public documents contained the avowals h hlim.e)d
of friends, — nay, the confession of the papacy itself; and thus 1,522.
confirmed what had been asserted by the reformers. Adrian Adrian, for-
was, however, the stern foe of Luther's doctrine, and was fully chariesv!,0
bent on his destruction. He soon died, perhaps by poison, and undertakes
was succeeded by Julian de Medicis, under the name of Cle- the church.
ment VII.; when the object of the papacy was, as before, not 1523.
to reform, but to aggrandize. Clement
7. For the eight years succeeding the diet of Worms, Charles
was fully occupied by his contests with Francis. In the mean-
time, the sentiments of the Reformers continued to spread ra-
pidly. In Switzerland, two or three years before Luther com-
menced his career, Zuinglius, a priest of Zurich, entered on a
similar course, and the Swiss generally embraced his opinions. 7*?*9*
But a minority opposed them by an armed force, and Zuinglius killed?3
was killed in battle. His principal friend, (Ecolampadius, died
with grief. Erasmus, the most learned man of his age, who had nSiv^of*
chosen a retirement in Switzerland, gave his influence against Ro»erdam,
the abuses of popery, if not warmly in favor of the reformation. Basle.)
From Germany the new opinions extended to France, the Low
Countries, and England. In the meantime, the peace of Cambray 1529.
liberated Charles from the French war, and he summoned a diet J^J at
at Spires, to settle religious controversies. The decree of the diet
confirmed that of Worms ; and forbade any further innovation in
religious affairs. The elector of Saxony, with other princes of Reformers
the empire, and the deputies of fourteen imperial cities, pro- pro2ltantg.
tested against this decree, and hence the reformers received the
name of Protestants.
8. The emperor summoned another diet at Augsburg. Luther
5. Under what circumstances leave it ?— 6. What declaration was pub-
lished by Adrian VI. ? What list of grievances was by the German princes
sent to Rome ? How did these publications serve the cause of the reforma-
tion? What occurred on the death of pope Adrian ? — 7. How was Charles
V. employed? Who was Zuinglius, and when and where did he stand for
the reformation ? Who was his friend ? Who was Erasmus ? What coun-
tries did the new opinions extend to ? Give an account of the proceedings
of the diet at Spires ? How did the reformers get the title of protestants V:
320
RISE OF THE JESUITS.
Modern Ms-
League of
Smalkald.
154©
Ignatius
Loyola
founds the
order of
Jesuits.
(Clement
XIV. in 1773
suppressed
the Jesuits.
1814, Pius
VII restored
them.)
Luther's
coarse
rebuke-
1524.
Rise of the
Anabaptists,
1534-5.
was not permitted to attend, and Melancthon drew up the pro-
testant confession of faith, which was presented to the diet; but
all efforts at reconciliation were fruitless. A more rigorous
decree was passed against the protestants; who now formed the
league of Smalkald, in which the proteslant states pledged them-
selves to defend each other against all aggressions. They also
formed a secret alliance with Henry VIII. of England, and with
Francis, the constant enemy of Charles. From this period,
1531, to the peace of Crespi, 1544, the emperor, occupied by
his wars with the French, and the Turks, and by his expedi-
tion to Africa, left the protestants free to promulgate their
opinions.
9. While the papacy was thus losing on the one hand, it
was gaining on the other. Ignatius of Loyola, an elegant
young knight, was fiercely fighting at the siege of Pampeluna,
when he received severe wounds in both his legs. As he
lay confined, a book of saints and martyrs was put into his
hands ; and when he arose from his bed, he laid aside his mili-
tary honors, and practised the most abject and painful mortifi-
cations. He then went a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and
became imbued with a belief, that he had a special call to found
a society for the conversion of those who sat in darkness. The
pope gave his sanction, and the society was founded, and is still
known by the name of the Jesuits. This society has pro-
duced a Xavier, a Marquette, and a host of others who zeal-
ously labored in heathen lands. The Jesuits afterwards became
corrupt; and their union, their secrecy, and unprincipled acts
performed under the base maxim, that " the end sanctifies the
means," made them the dread not only of protestant, but of catho-
lic countries. The cause of the reformation was also wounded
by its friends. When Luther first returned to Wittenberg,
he found among them, those who were setting aside all rule.
Asserting a baptism from on high, they called themselves Jina-
oaptists. Their leader telling Luther they needed not the
Scriptures, they were guided by a spirit, he impatiently replied,
" I slap your spirit on the snout !" The result of their move-
ments, snowed that Luther had discerned its nature. Munzer,
the chief leader, after making many proselytes, led them forth
in armed masses, ranging the land and committing excesses, in
order to drive out u the Canaanitish nations." No less than
50,000 persons are supposed to have perished. At length Muhl-
hausen, in Thuringia, became their chief seat. Munzer as-
sumed the sole power, and no crime was too shameful for him
and his followers to perpetrate. At length they were defeated
in battle, and Munzer was slain.
10. When relieved from his cares, Charles leagued with the
8. What occurred at the diet of Augsburg? What league did this lead
to? What obliged Charles to leave the protestants for a time at liberty ? —
9. Give an account of the founder of the Jesuits. Of the society of the Je-
suits. Of the anabaptists. What was done after they ranged in arms with
Munzer at their head ?
MAURICE OP SAXONY. 321
pope to extirpate heresy. They convened a council at Trent. Modern.ms.
The protestants refused to submit to its decisions. Considering
its doctrines as abhorrent both to reason and Scripture, they
resolved rather to resort to arms. Charles, unprepared for im-
mediate war, had recourse to his usual arts of intrigue and ne-
gotiation. He won Maurice, a prince of the Saxon family, by
promising to give him the possessions of the elector of Saxony.
While the emperor and princes of the league were thus negotia-
ting, Luther died; and the protestants were subjected to all the
evils arising- from divided councils. Maurice invaded Saxonv, ,m «
-i r i i r- i m i ^ i - ,^ * 1 (The Coun-
deleated the troops of the Elector, and made himself master of cu of Trent
almost the whole electorate. The disheartened confederates chuSbViw
sued to the emperor for peace; but the conditions he imposed fallibility —
were so rigorous, that they were at once rejected. Their army, thTabuses
meantime, verv imprudently separated. This was no sooner of the PaP«-
done, than Charles took measures to procure the separate sub- nounces
mission of the princes. All but the elector of Saxony, and the JjJ^J
landgrave of Hesse, yielded. The former returned to his elec* against ail
torate, which he recovered. The death of Francis, relieving w theST8'6
Charles from fear of France, he carried the war into Saxony.
The elector was defeated and taken prisoner. The landgrave France* >
alone, was now in arms, and the emperor, by artifice obtained
possession of his person, and detained both him and the elector
in rigorous captivity. The league, so formidable at first, was
thus wholly dispersed.
11. At a diet held in Augsburg, there was presented by the
emperor's orders, a system of doctrine called " the Interim,"
because it was to be binding only until a general council should 154c
be called. This system, although relaxed in one or two points, "The int'e-
was decidedly against the protestants; and did not satisfy either rim"
them or the catholics. In the meantime the emperor manifested
a desire to make the imperial dignity hereditary in his family;
and hence he sought to procure his son, Philip, to be elected (Ferdinand,
emperor, to the prejudice of his brother Ferdinand, who had second son
already received the title of king of the Romans. These, with Handsome?
other measures, alarmed the German princes. The electors re- f"d TJoanna«
r 1 -ill- t • • t»/t- r> n tne Insane.)
fused to yield to his solicitation. Maurice of Saxony now se-
cretly became his enemy, and with consummate art, set himself
to countermine his plans. He obtained of Charles the command
of the imperial army, and was employed to compel the citizens Maurice
of Magdeburg to submit to the Interim. After accomplishing pl£rgieSnst
that object, he delayed, under various pretexts, to disband his
army. He next obtained the support of Henry II. who had suc-
ceeded his father in France. At the head of 20,000 foot, and
IO. What council was convened, and by whom ? What did the protest-
ants think of its decrees, and what prefer to receiving them ? Who was
won by Charles ? In what year did Luther die ? What was then the con-
dition of the protestants ? What course was pursued by Charles, and how
far did he succeed in breaking up the league of Smalkald ? — 11. What, was
the scheme called the interim, and how did the protestants receive it ? What
other measure did Charles pursue displeasing to the German princes ? What
course was now taken by Maurice ?
41
322
CHARLES V. ABDICATES.
Modern His.
PERIOD 1
CHAP. V.
1552-
Peace of
Passau.
Establishes
protestant-
ism.
1556.
Charles ab-
dicates.
5,000 horse, he now published a manifesto against the emperor,
boldly stating the reasons of his taking arms. Charles, out of
health, and not suspicious of ill, was, with a few soldiers, at
Innspruck. Astounded at the news of the defection of Maurice,
he had no resource but flight. Unable to travel in a carriage,
the sovereign of half Europe was hurried over the Alps in a
litter. He arrived safely at Villach, in Carinthia, where he re-
mained till matters were settled with the protestant princes.
12. Maurice finding the pursuit fruitless, returned to Inn-
spruck. The council summoned to Trent, had been removed
on pretence of an epidemic, to Bologna, and they now separated
in consternation. Meantime negotiations commenced at Passau,
which at length terminated in a peace, styled " the Peace of
Religion." Its principal stipulation was,f that the liberties and
rights of the protestants in Germany should be secured. The
French king had no part in this treaty, so that Charles still had
a war upon his hands. The Turkish fleet again made a de-
scent upon Italy, and ravaged the coast of Naples ; while, in
Hungary; the imperial arms were unsuccessful. Charles, wearied
with the cares of royalty, now abdicated his crown ; resigning
the sovereignty of Spain and the Netherlands to his son Philip.
His brother Ferdinand was chosen emperor by the electors of
Germany. In order to leave his dominions in quiet, he made
a truce Math Henry II. of France, for five years. He then re-
tired to a monastery in Spain, where he passed the two remain-
ing years of his life, with no amusement but that of making
watches.
CHAPTER V.
1509-
Henry VIII.
His early
promise of
goodness
soon
blighted.
England. — Scotland .
]. Henry VIII., on the death of his father, succeeded to the
throne at the age of eighteen. Handsome, generous, and adroit
in martial exercises, his accession to the throne was hailed with
a joy the more sincere on account of the unpopularity of his
father. His first step was to secure the alliance of Spain by a
marriage with Catharine of Arragon, the widow of his brother
Arthur. He retained in his service the counsellors of his
father, and assisted in their deliberations, that he might learn to
11. What was now the situation of the emperor?— 12. To what place
was the council of Trent removed? When and where was a peace con-
eluded ? Was the empire of Charles wholly in a state of peace ? Give an
account of his abdication and retirement.
Chap. V.— 1. What was the first appearance and conduct of Henry VIII.
of England, after his accession ?
THE REFORMATION IN SCOTLAND 323
conduct public affairs. But he had within him the germs of Modern His-
violent passions, which, nursed in the hot-bed of unrestrained period i.
self-indulgence and flattery, attained at length an enormous
growth. The adulation which he received on account of his feats
at tournaments, inflated him with the vain desire of equalling
the military fame of Edward III. and Henry V. in the fields of
France. Making the quarrels of Louis XII. with the pope, a
pretence for war, he invaded his kingdom with an army, and de-
manded the surrender of those provinces, which had formerly dor that the
belonged to the English. PIacf is
. called the
2. During his absence, James IV. of Scotland, incited by the "Field of the
French court, and complaining of grievances received from the q°J|J ?,f
English, collected an army, crossed the Tweed, and passing
through Alnwick, encamped at Flodden. Here he was met by *f J^'
the earl of Surrey ; and the bloody battle of Flodden-Field den'
was fought, in which the king of Scotland perished, with the ff^rejame"s
flower of the Scottish nobility, iv. Scottish
3. James V. was only a year old at the time of his father's 't^S'
death. Henry intrigued to get the administration placed in the and nobles
hands of his sister, queen Margaret, mother of the young king.
Between her and the duke of Albany, a nobleman in the interest James v-
of the French court, constant dissensions arose. Hostilities gent'6"
with the English continued, with no important results. James
assumed the administration at the age of seventeen. He made (The Doug-
peace with Henry; but espousing successively two French lases in
princesses, the last of whom was Mary of Guise, the Scottish gThey°andr'
monarch became closely united with the French. Scotland, as the Hamil-
</ i tons w&fftj
well as England, had become imbued with the principles of the feudal war.)
reformation. James, however, adhered zealously to the religion 1542.
of Rome, and persecuted the protestants. This was another haddojt-
source of enmity between him and the king of England, and ScSs suc-
another war ensued. At Haddonrig, the Scottish arms triumphed cessfui, but
over the English. Shortly after, James having assembled an solway
army of 30,000 men, their feudal leaders refused to advance moss.
into England. Afterwards another^ army was collected, and (When told
when news arrived of their disgraceful flight on the western °j ^AjJ"}*
border, the monarch sank under the mortification, and died a ter, James
week after the birth of his daughter, who was afterwards so ce- Crown'came
lebrated as Mary queen of Scots. „ withaiass,
4. Meanwhile a decided spirit of opposition to the church of godwith a*
Rome was spreading. John Knox, the stern reformer of Scot- 'ass.")
land, was already in the field. Henry VIII. had written against
Luther in the earlier part of his reign, and received from the
1. What effect had the flatteries he received respecting his feats of arms,
upon his political measures ? — 2. Give an account of the battle of Flodden-
field — its occasion — the parties — and the result. — 3. Who succeeded James
IV. of Scotland ? What was done respecting the regency ? When did
James assume the government ? What matrimonial connections form ?
What contests with the English are noticed ? What effect had the flight of
his army on James V. ? What child did he leave ? Observe how she was
connected with the royal family of England. — 4. How was it with regard
to the spread of the reformation ? Who was John Knox ?
324
HENRY VIIT. QUARRELS WITH THE POPE.
Modern His-
PERIOD I.
CHAP. V.
(Some
writers sup-
pose Hen-
ry's scruples
sincere.)
1525.
Wolsey,
proud and
haughty in
prosperity,
is meek in
adversity.
153©.
Wolsey
dies.
1532.
(Cranmer
made pri-
mate by
Henry, pro-
nounces him
divorced
from Catha-
rine. He
marries
Anne
Boleyn.
pope the title of " Defender of the Faith." He had also, burned
several heretics ; but wishing to be divorced from his excellent
wife Catharine of Arragon, and to espouse Anne Boleyn, a
lady of his court, he thought, or affected to think his union
with Catharine illegal, because she was his brother's widow ;
and he now supported the cause of the catholics, that he might
win the favor of the pope, who, he hoped, would annul the
marriage. To him he accordingly appealed, but his suit was
delayed from time to time. At length Clement VII., under the
influence of Catharine's nephew, Charles V., summoned Henry
to appear at Rome ; an insult which the monarch highly re-
sented. Henry next proposed the question of the validity of his
marriage to the universities of Europe, and from several of these
received answers propitious to his purpose.
5. Cardinal Wolsey, whom Henry had raised to great
power, secretly desired to procure a marriage for him Math
some French princess, in order to forward his own designs
upon the papal crown. Wolsey was a • great, though an ambi-
tious man, and he had by his influence over the king, kept his
violent passions in check. Becoming wearied of this control,
and incited to suspicion by Anne Boleyn and her friends, Henry
at length resolved on his destruction. The meekness with
which the cardinal submitted to his arbitrary will, — not denying
unjust accusations, giving to the king large estates, and quietly
returning to his ecclesiastical functions, would have propitiated
any, but a cruel tyrant. In his retirement, however, Wolsey
was apprehended on the charge of high treason; but was seized
on his journey to London with a mortal disease. Being near
to death he said, " Had I but served my God as diligently as I
have served my king, he would not have given me over in my
gray hairs."
6. The new counsellors of Henry, the sycophantic Crom-
well and Cranmer, gave whatever advice, they supposed the
king desired to have. It was resolved in the affair of the di-
vorce to await no longer the pope's determination. Henry,
assuming to be himself head of the church, made Cranmer pri-
mate, or first dignitary; and as such he pronounced that the
marriage of Henry with Catharine was null and void. That vir-
tuous princess had conducted with the utmost dignity and pru-
dence; and during the five years in which Henry had disturbed
her peace, as well as that of the nations of Europe by seeking
this divorce, she never uttered a disrespectful expression. After
his marriage with Anne Boleyn, Catharine, being about to die,
4r. What had Henry VIII. done in the early part of his reign in reference
to the reformation ? Why did Henry now court the favor of the pope ? How
did the pope conduct on the occasion ? What effect had his summons to
Rome on Henry ? — 5. Give an account of cardinal Wolsey and of his con-
duct I Of Henry's treatment of the cardinal ? How did he bear himself in
his adversity ? What were his dying words ? — 6. Who were Henry's new
ministers ? How was the affair of the divorce managed ? What was the con-
duct of queen Catharine?
A TYRANT. 325
wrote him an affectionate letter of forgiveness, which he read Modern His.
after her death with tears.*
7. The execution of Sir Thomas More, chancellor of the
kingdom, who is said to have resembled the ancient sages more
than any man who had appeared in Europe for centuries, awa- 1535.
kened the indignation of all Christendom. He refused either ]Jfore £JJts
to affirm or deny the validity of Catherine's marriage, or the cutedvaiso
supremacy, which the king now assumed in matters of religion ; Fisher,
although he declared himself ready to swear that he would
support the succession to the crown, established by parliament.
The despotic Henry and his obsequious ministers pronounced
him guilty of treason. Bishop Fisher also suffered death for
denying the king's spiritual supremacy.
8. Three years after his marriage with Anne Boleyn, Henry, Henry's
whose affections had again wandered, caused her to be beheaded wtharSinSa"
on the scaffold, and the next day married the new favorite, Jane Anne Bo-
Seymour. She died after giving birth to a son, afterwards Ed- Seymour?
ward Vf. A marriage was then negotiated with Anne, dutchess Anne of
of Cleves, which ended in a divorce ; and was succeeded by one tharlne*"
with Catharine Howard, who was brought to the scaffold. Howard,
He was then married to Catharine Parr, who survived him. parr.
9. The war with Scotland continued. Henry desired to pro-
cure the hand of the young queen, Mary Stuart, for his son Mary stu-
Edward, and thus unite both crowns. The French party pre- art affianced
ponderated in the Scottish councils, and Mary was affianced to (She is sent
Francis, the dauphin. The war, although sanguinary, resulted toFrance-)
in nothing decisive, and at length a peace was concluded.
Henry's last days were much occupied in ecclesiastical affairs.
He was acknowledged supreme head of the church, suppressed (Cardinal
the religious houses, turned out the monks and nuns, and took 0°Henry!
possession of the church property : but he favoured the doc- " H(^ hatn a
• n r\ 17 7777 77-77 HlOSt pnnce-
tnnes of Rome, and burned at the slake those who denied them; as iy bearing,
he did also those by whom they were maintained, if they dis- than mt?
puted his supremacy. At times, however, he seemed to lean to any part of
the side of the reformers of Germany, whose opinions were, wi^ heYwiii
certainly, making silent progress in England; but in church hendanffrlf
and state, he was the most despotic tyrant that ever swayed the of his king-
English sceptre. dom-")
10. Henry, by his will, left his crown, first to his son, Ed- 1547.
ward VI., the son of Jane Seymour, next to Mary, daughter Edward vi.
of Catharine of Spain, and next to Elizabeth, daughter of
Anne Boleyn. Edward was but nine years of age at the death
* The king ordered his servants to dress in mourning for Catharine ; but
Anne appeared on that day in a robe of yellow silk. Henry, after he had
brought Anne to the scaffold, shed no tears.
t. Give an account of the chancellor. For what was he condemned and
executed ? Who else was executed for the same offence ? — 8. What was
the fate of Anne Boleyn ? Mention Henry's succeeding wives. — 9. How
did the French interest thwart the views of Henry in Scotland ? How were
Henry's last days occupied ? How did he deal with the monasteries ? How
did he manifest his capricious and cruel tyranny ? What was his character ?
326
THE LADY JANE GREY.
Modern His.
1549.
English Li-
turgy.
1553.
Lady Jane
Grey.
(Mary had,
after the
death of
Anne of
Britanny,
married
Louis XII.
of France.
She then
married the
elegant
Charles
Brandon,
duke of
Suffolk,
grandfather
to Lady
Jane.)
1555.
Queen Mary
marries
Philip of
(When Eli-
zabeth was
a child, her
sister Mary
said of her
4i She was
a toward lit-
tle dar-
ling.")
of his father. The government was committed to a regency,
at the head of which was his uncle, Henry Seymour, earl of
Hertford, now created duke of Somerset. He, adopting the
opinions of Luther, established a church, with the aid of learned,
pious, and judicious men; not only independent of the see of
Rome, but dissenting from, it in doctrine and practice, and using
special precautions that it should never coalesce. During this
reign, a liturgy in the English language was adopted, and the
church of England established on much the same foundation
as that on which it now rests.
11, The health of Edward failed, and the hopes derived from
his amiability of character and attachment to the protestant
cause were about to be blighted. The duke of Northumber-
land now sought to prepare the way for the elevation to the
throne, of his son lord Guilford Dudley, who had married the
lady Jane Grey, granddaughter of Mary, youngest daughter
of Henry VIJ. The attachment of Edward VI. to the lady
Jane, who was about his own age, and who had been, under
the celebrated Roger Ascham, the companion of his studies,
together with her piety and sweetness of character, rendered
the young king accessible to the reasonings of Northumberland ;
and without the knowledge of Lady Jane, he declared her his
successor. When, on the death of Edward, the tidings of her
elevation were announced to her, she fainted with surprise and
grief; and on her recovery, she sought to escape the unwel-
come dignity, urging the prior claims of Mary and Elizabeth.
But in an evil hour she suffered her scruples to be overruled by
her ambitious relatives, and she was proclaimed queen. A contest
ensued between Northumberland and the partisans of Mary, in
which the latter were successful. The duke was impeached for
treason, and beheaded. The innocence of lady Jane, and her
husband, lord Dudley, procured them a short respite ; but at
length, they too were condemned, and suffered on the scaffold.
12. The leading partisans of lady Jane were next tried and
executed ; and the Catholic bishops were restored. Negotia-
tions were shortly after commenced for the marriage of the
queen, which, notwithstanding the remonstrances of her sub-
jects, resulted in a treaty with Charles V., who had proposed
her union with his son Philip II. An insurrection, headed by
Sir Thomas Wyatt, and the duke of Suffolk, showed the dis-
turbed state of the public mind. The conspirators had urged
the princess Elizabeth to assume the crown, which, with her
characteristic prudence she refused.
lO. Who succeeded Henry ? Give some account of the political events
of his reign. What was done in church affairs ? — 11. How was Edward
tampered with, in regard to the succession, and whom did he appoint ? What
were his reasons for appointing this lady ? How did she receive the news
of her elevation? What was the result? — 12. What was done with the
adherents of lady Jane? Whom did queen Mary marry ? What insur-
rection was the consequence of her marrying a strict Catholic, she being
one herself? What was offered to Elizabeth ?
THE FIRES OF SMITHFIELD. 327
13. Shortly after the arrival of Philip in England, the realm jfjjjg* His-
was, with great ceremony, re-united to the Roman church, and period i.
absolved by the pope's legate, cardinal Pole,* from the sins of chap. v.
heresy and schism. At Rome, this event was celebrated with K*^~"'~>,-s
great joy and splendor. This reconciliation was the signal for 1555.
lighting up the fires of persecution in England. The first mar- antfSra8
tyr was John Rogers, who was burnt at Smithfield, March 4th, burnt.
1555. The bishops Latimer, Ridley, Hooper, and Cranmer,
fathers of the English church, also suffered martyrdom. The num- (Calvin,
ber of those who were put to death for conscience sake, during about 1542,
this short reign, is estimated at 400, of whom 290 were burned vetus to be
alive. Many of the protestants fled to foreign lands. John ^rettc.)'
Calvin was teaching with great reputation at Geneva, and there
many of the persecuted found repose. The death of Mary, 455^
which occurred not long after, was followed by the accession Elizabeth
of her sister Elizabeth to the throne. The following year, s1JSary?S
the wars which had so long agitated Europe, were composed
by the treaty of Chateau Cambresis, vMcli procured a general 155®.
peace.
14. POLAND, anciently inhabited by Vandals, was, in 550, 55®. "
made a duchy. About 300 years afterwards, Piastus, a peasant, Po^and
was elected duke. He lived to the age of 120, and made so duchy.
excellent a sovereign, that the Poles called his successors, when ?^9-
o ' ... . A kin"'-
native princes, Piasts. Christianity was introduced about the domun-
time that Poland became a kingdom, under Boleslaus III. A ^giaus
succession of civil wars followed until 1178, when Casimir hi.
the Just restored order. From Andrew If. the Poles obtain- ~%-%%%
ed a great charter, which laid the foundation of their national charter
freedom. Looking back to the early history of this country, f^jjj]
fc Cardinal Pole was by birth an English nobleman, and allied to the royal Bull."
family. Early in the reign of Henry VIII., his piety led him to take orders
in the church. When that monarch sought to be independent of the see of
Rome for the iniquitous purpose of obtaining a divorce, Pole had the firm-
ness to oppose him, which changed the love, the king had borne him, to
hatred. Forced to leave England, the pope and emperor of Germany es-
poused his cause, and he received high honors in the church. Henry, in
revenge, put to death several of his relatives, and among them his aged
mother, the countess of Salisbury. On the accession of Mary, he was re-
called. Had his mild counsels been followed, instead of those of the cruel
priests, Gardiner and Bonner, the blood of many martyrs who perished in
this reign, might have been spared. In regard to the personal character of
Mary, much allowance should be made for the errors of her government,
from the peculiar circumstances of her childhood, as well as the influence
of her husband, to whom she was faithful and devoted. The blood shed by
Mary in England was little in comparison to that which flowed in Spain by
the inquisition, allowed by her grandmother. Yet Isabella is lauded, even
by protestants, while her granddaughter is called "The Bloody Mary."
Times had changed, but Mary, brought up in seclusion with her wronged
and unhappy mother, had not changed with them.
13. What was done soon after Philip's arrival? Who was first put to
death ? Where did he suffer ? What others are mentioned ? Who suc-
ceeded Mary ? What occurred the following year ? — 14. By whom was
Poland anciently inhabited ? When was it made a duchy ? From whom
were the early princes called Piasts? Under what sovereign, and when did
Poland become a kingdom ? What is said of Casimir the Just ? What
was done in the reign of Andrew II. ?
328 POLAND INCLUDING PRUSSIA.
Modem His. we see not why, had the Poles been united, and judicious as
well as patriotic, they might not have been at this day one of the
first powers in Europe. But the practice of choosing foreign
sovereigns early began. In 1370, Louis, the able sovereign of
Hungary, was elected king of Poland ; and he ruled a domain,
parts of which touched the Adriatic, the Black sea, and the
Baltic. Lithuania, though often at war with Poland, had till
this period preserved its independence, and was the last portion
of Europe unchristianized. Louis had sought to secure the
succession of Poland to his eldest daughter Maria and Sigis-
mund, elector of Brandenburg, to whom she was betrothed ;
but the Poles preferring Hedwige, the younger daughter, she
rI386. was married to Jagello, duke of Lithuania, and he was elected
jaus i" under the name of Ladislaus I, He was baptized, and his peo-
^kff" P^e received Christianity; and he became the founder of a dy-
Poiand nasty, under which Poland saw her best days,
thuanla ^ Prussia was conquered by the Tuetonic Knights, an
united, order of military monks, who, returning from the crusades,
Lad. h. in 1225, obliged the people, at the point of the sword, to sub-
to mit to their government, and receive their religion. By their
Lad hi. barbarities they almost depopulated the country. Casimir IV.,
chosen of Poland, took up arms for the oppressed people, and long and
Hun. bloody wars followed, in which the knights were, in 1466,
1466. overcome. Albert, the grand master of the order, then,re-
C1 Cas
mir
5-i
Ions.
n_ nounced the Catholic, and embraced the Reformed religion, and
quers was made duke of east Prussia, as a vassal of Poland. Albert
Prussia. founded the University of Konigsberg. The first diet of Po-
land was in 1468. The reigns of Sigismund I., and of his
Fir^t son antl successor Sigismund If., form the brightest era
Diet, of Polish history. The reformation was received, and Po-
giois. land was the first of the nations to declare religious to-
mund I, leration. The death of, Sigismund II. terminated the male
l$V2- *nie °f me Jagellons, and, unhappily, foreigners were af-
Lastof terwards elected by the contentious nobles. The frame of
Jagei- society and government had now lost its balance, the aris-
tocracy having reduced to nothing the power of the people,
and of the sovereign.
(Poland was the ancient Sarmatia, and during the last portion of the
middle ages, the principal of the Slavonic Nations, so called from the
Slavi, a barbarous and peculiar people, who once wandered over its fer-
tile regions, which extended from the Euxine to the Baltic. The Poles
were originally divided into small republics, under chiefs elected for life,
called palatins or vaivodes.)
14. Give an account of Louis. Of the extent of his empire. What
occurred respecting the succession? What is remarked concerning the
dynasty of the Jagellons ? — 15. By whom, and when was Prussia con-
quered? By whom, and when were the Teutonic Knights reduced to sub-
mission ? What was done by Albert ? What occurred 1468 ? What reigns
form the brightest era in Polish history? When were the Jagellons ex-
tinct ?
Patent given in 1578, by Q. Elizabeth
PERIOD II
THE
GENERAL
TREATY OR? 1559C OF
2RAL PEACE 3 C CA
CHATEAU
CAMBRESIS,
THE ASSASSI-
NATION OF
TO
1610.£HENRYIV"
COF FRANCE.
CHAPTER I
England and Scotland.
1. After Charles V., the main light of the historic picture
falls upon Elizabeth of England ; as being the most powerful,
sagacious, and politic sovereign of the time. Though she suc-
ceeded to the crown without opposition, her claims were every-
where disputed by the Catholics, on the ground that the mar-
riage of her father, Henry VI If., to her mother, Anne Boleyn,
was not valid ; the pope not having sanctioned his divorce from
Catharine of Arragon. The pope accordingly issued a bull, de-
claring her illegitimate, and absolving her subjects from their
oath of allegiance. Her cousin -german, Mary, queen of Scots,
was esteemed by the Catholics, the lawful heir. She had re-
mained in France, been educated to extensive knowledge of
languages, general literature, and elegant accomplishments ; and
was now married to the dauphin, afterwards Francis TI. By
the advice of the duke of Guis'e and the cardinal of Lor-
raine, the brothers of her mother,fshe assumed the arms and
title of " queen of England f* thus giving just occasion of alarm
Modern His.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
Period II. — Chap. I. — 1. What may be said of Elizabeth of England
as to her merits as a sovereign ? What causes of annoyance had she ?
Where was now Mary queen of Scots? Who gave her bad advice, and
what did she in consequence ?
42 329
INTOLERANCE OF THE PROTESTANTS.
Modern His.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
(John Knox
had been
under Cal-
vin's teach-
ing on the
continent.
While there
he wrote
and sent
over a book
entitled
"The First
Blast of the
Trumpet
against the
Monstrous
Regiment of
Women;"
meaning
Mary of
England and
Mary of
Guise.)
1559.
The ambi-
tion of the
Guises
again mis-
lead their
niece.
to Elizabeth, although no immediate measures were taken to sup-
port her claim. Meanwhile Elizabeth strengthened herself in
her authority, by choosing and sustaining able counsellors, and
adopting prudent measures • while with mingled courtesy and
dignity, she made herself as a mother to the lowest of her sub-
jects ; never refusing to receive their petitions, and judge between
them and their most powerful oppressors. But, like her father,
she had an indomitable will, a disposition to control unchecked,
all affairs in her kingdom, both secular and ecclesiastical. Hence
her reign procured England prosperity and peace, but neither
civil or religious liberty.
2. In Scotland, the reformation had made great progress.
The heads of the protestant party, the principal of whom was
John Knox, jealous of the influence of the Guises over the
queen-regent Mary of Guise, had associated as the " Congre-
gation of the Lord." The papists, alarmed, resorted to persecu-
tion. The regent at one time was in favor with the protestants,
but she forfeited their esteem by her duplicity; and rebellion
ensued. The protestants applied to Elizabeth, who sent an
army to their assistance. The queen regent, though she re-
ceived troops from France, retired to Leith, where she was be-
sieged. Here she died ; when the Guises dispatched envoys from
France to Edinburgh, and a treaty was concluded with Eliza-
beth's ambassadors ; by the terms of which, the French forces
were to be withdrawn from Scotland, and Francis and Mary to
abstain from assuming the title of king and queen of England.
The rights of the protestants were secured by the treaty, which
provided for a regency of twelve persons to be chosen jointly
by the queen of Scots and the parliament, to govern the realm
during her absence. After this, the French and English armies
both left Scotland ; but Elizabeth held a controlling influence.
3. The protestants, still headed by John Knox, now perse-
cuted in their turn. Worship according to the ritual of the
Romish church was utterly prohibited by law, and the third
offence of this kind made punishable by death. Meantime the
Guises, although compelled by the disorders in France, to yield
for the present, did not relinquish their design of establishing
their niece, Mary, upon the throne of England. Influenced by
them, Francis II. and Mary, now king and queen of France, re-
fused to ratify the treaty which their ambassadors had made in
Edinburgh, and continued to assume the title and arms of mon-
archs of England. The sudden death of Francis left the beau-
tiful Mary, now no longer queen of France, at liberty to return
to Scotland ; and a deputation of her subjects arrived with a
1. How did Elizabeth strengthen her authority? How did she gain the
love of her people ? — 2. What was the state of the reformation in Scotland ?
Between what parties was there contention ? What foreign influence guided
the councils of the queen-regent ? Whom did the protestants call to their
aid, and what was done ? Where did queen Mary die ? What events fol-
lowed her death ? — 3. By what was the protestant cause now disgraced ?
How did the Guises and their niece conduct in regard to the treaty ?
THE QUEEN OF SCOTS. 331
pressing invitation that she should assume the government. She Mode™ ms.
complied, and bade adieu to France with tears and lamentations, period ii.
" Farewell ! dear France, — farewell !" she said, as the receding chap. i.
vessel carried her from its beloved shores, to a land around "^~\r***s
which clustered dark forebodings of the future.
4. On her arrival she was received with joy, and by her first
measures she acquired the confidence of the protestant party.
Mary, however, was a papist ; and her adherence to the regular
celebration of mass soon awakened the jealousy, and at length 1561-
alienated the affections of those of her subjects over whom oJqueenof
Knox held a controlling influence;* and she thenceforth re- Scots-
ceived from them abusive treatment, and on some occasions,
outrageous insult. There was now peace between England
and Scotland ; and apparently cordial friendship between the
rival queens.
5. Among the aspirants for the hand of the fair queen of
Scots, was her cousin, Henry Stuart, lord Darnley, eldest
son of the earl of Lenox, his mother being Margaret Doug- WMB5-
las, niece to Henry VIII. Darnley was elegant in his person, marrils
and after Mary, next heir to the English crown. Him Mary Darnley-
married, and by this measure excited the jealousy of the vigi-
lant Elizabeth. Darnley proved not only weak and vain, but S^pthe
savage in temper; and he soon ceased to pay to the lovely Mary protectants
the homage her heart demanded, and to which she had been Mary^Xn
accustomed in France. The favor she showed to David Riz- drowns it.)
zio, an Italian musician, whom she had made her private secre-
tary, excited the jealousy of Darnley, who, with some of his 1566.
friends, entered the queen's apartment, dragged the Italian from MRizzio°f
her presence, and murdered him in the room adjoining. The
birth of her son James soon followed this tragical event.
6. A few months after, the house in which Darnley slept was fi
destroyed by an explosion of gunpowder, and he was killed. Hepburn.
The earl of Bothwell was supposed to be the author of this Earl of Both-
atrocious deed ; and rumor attributed to the queen a share of the £s Darn-
guilt. Bothwell, after a mock trial, was exculpated from the ley' and
charge of murder. The queen exalted him to high honors and Mary'.
offices, and about three months after the murder of her hus-
band, she married him. An attempt of Bothwell to get posses-
sion of the infant James, drove the indignant nobles to arms.
Mary also assembled forces ; but on witnessing the reluctance
* A table is now shown (the fragments having been collected) in Holy
Rood house, at Edinburgh, on which stood an image of the virgin, which
John Knox, intruding himself into the private apartment of his sovereign,
dashed to pieces in her presence.
3. What change now took place in the condition and location of Mary?—
4. How was Mary received ? How treated by the protestant leaders ? Were
her relations with Elizabeth amicable ? — 5. How did she excite Elizabeth's
jealousy ? Who was lord Darnley ? What kind of man did he prove to
be? What shocking outrage was he guilty of ? What occurred soon after ?
— 6. How was Darnley killed ? What was believed concerning the murder-
ers ? What was the conduct of Mary towards Bothwell ? What was now
the position of Mary ?
332
A POLITIC STATESMAN.
Modern His.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
James VI.
154*§.
GLAS-
GOW.
Murray de-
feats his
lawful sove-
reign.
(Mary's
confinement
was embit-
tered by the
meanness of
her son.
When on
one occasion
her own
hands had
wrought
him an ele-
gant pre-
sent, he sent
it back be-
cause she
had not, for-
sooth, pro-
perly di-
rected it!)
158T
Mary
executed.
1562.
(The
XXXIX.
Articles ra-
tified.)
(After the
death of
Mary, Philip
offered his
hand to Eli-
zabeth, and
was re-
jected.)
of her troops to fight in defence of Bothwell, and receiving as-
surances from the confederated lords, of their willingness to
submit to her government, provided Bothwell was banished
from her councils, she dismissed him, and he fled to the Ork-
neys. Here his piracies raised him new enemies, and he was
finally captured, and died unpitied in a prison in Norway. The
queen herself was treacherously kept a prisoner in the castle of
Loch Leven by the confederated lords, who took upon them-
selves the administration of the government. They next com-
pelled her to resign, and then proclaimed her son king, under
the title of James VI.; making the earl of Murray regent of
the kingdom.
7. Mary escaped from her prison by the aid of the chivalric
young Douglas, a captive to her charms. At Hamilton, she
was joined by a large number of the nobility, and, with an army
of 6,000, she met and encountered, near Glasgow, the forces of
Murray, and suffered a total defeat. She then rashly threw her-
self upon the generosity of Elizabeth for protection. The Eng-
lish queen unjustly made her a prisoner, and contrary to the
laws of nations, Mary, being like herself, an independent sove-
reign, she assumed to try her before a court of English and
French commissioners, on the charge of being accessory to the
death of her husband. Mary objected to the jurisdiction, and
at the same time denied the charge, but was pronounced guilty;
and thenceforth she was kept a prisoner in England, always
strictly guarded, and sometimes poorly accommodated. Nine-
teen years after her first trial, she was arraigned again, on the ac-
cusation of being a party to a conspiracy against the life of Eliza-
beth ; — condemned, and executed at Fotheringay castle. The
misfortunes of the lovely queen of Scots, insensibly lead the
heart to regard her with sympathy ; and throw a veil over her
imprudencies, it may be her crimes.
8. The internal administration of the English government
was, during this period, wise and vigorous. Cecil, Lord Bur-
leigh, the secretary of state, knew every winding of human
policy, even to its ultimate axiom, that good faith and fair deal-
ing are, on the whole, the most profitable. The nation rose to
wealth and consequence, more rapidly than at any former pe-
riod. The religion of the reformation was permanently estab-
lished, and troops were sent to France to aid the distressed
protestants in that kingdom. England and Spain were at this
period the most powerful nations of Europe ; and the interests
of the monarchs being opposed, pretexts for hostilities were
found. Philip was at the head of a league formed among the
6. Why did she dismiss Bothwell? Did the lords deal fairly with her?
What did they compel her to do? What was their next step? — T. Who
aided her escape? What parties fought a battle near Glasgow, and
how did it terminate ? What rash step was next taken by Mary ? What
was now the conduct of Elizabeth ? What further can you relate of the un-
fortunate Mary ? — 8. What in the meantime was the internal administration
of England ? Who was the lord Burleigh ? Which were the most power-
ful nations of Europe ? How did the position of the sovereigns contrast ?
ELIZABETH AT TILBURY. 333
catholic powers, for the suppression of heresy ; while Elizabeth Modern His.
was regarded as the leader of the protestant party. Philip es- period ii.
poused the interests of Mary, queen of Scots, encouraged and chap. i.
strengthened insurrections in England, and dispatched a body ^-*^v~n-'
of Spaniards and Italians, to assist the Irish in a rebellion against
the English government. Elizabeth, by the vigor of her arms, ^JJJJf
not only crushed the rebellion in her own states, but yielded Spain
effectual support to the inhabitants of the Low Countries, who
were struggling to escape from the tyrannical domination of
Spain, l^s^
9. England was now alarmed with the intelligence that the mr Francis
Spanish monarch was preparing an immense fleet, styled the ^aising-
" Invincible Armada," for the invasion of the island. Philip English se-
laid every part of his vast dominions under contribution ; and ^JJJJf t5j
the length and nature of his warlike preparations, betokened Spanish
that the enterprise contemplated nothing less for its object, than pJSested'at
the entire conquest of Britain. Indeed, so confident were the ?e"^a'hhin"
Spaniards of success, that many nobles attended the armament, mament a
merely to receive a share in the division of the country. ^burnuJ1^
10. Elizabeth was fully awake to the emergency. She su- squadron in
perintended the military preparations herself. She mounted Cadborh)ar"
her horse, rode forth and inspected her troops at Tilbury, — (The pope
awakened their hopes, and aroused their energies. " I will," j^VfnriT
said she, " fight at your head, for though I have but the arm of l'Viiip.)
a woman, I have the heart of a king ; and I am ready to pour
out my blood." The Armada, from which such mighty achieve-
ments were expected, was attacked in the channel by the Eng-
lish under Howard and Drake, several ships taken, and others 1588.
sunk, or damaged; so that the Spanish commander, the duke ofthe "in-
of Medina Sidonia, was obliged to return to Spain for repairs. vi^^ » r"
The winds proving contrary, he sailed north to make the cir-
cuit of the island. Off the Orkneys, a severe storm dispersed ^{JJma L
and wrecked the fleet. One half of the vessels, and a still known also
greater proportion of the seamen and soldiers were destroyed. derFarnese")
Thus ended this formidable invasion, whose destruction proved
the commencement of the maritime supremacy of England.
11. The parliament during this reign, as in the preceding,
generally displayed the most abject submission to the will of
the sovereign. On one occasion they demanded liberty of
speech ; the queen "peremptorily refused, and they submitted. 15*2%.
But towards the close of the reign they took a bolder tone ; and sir Francis
the queen showed her policy in granting with a good grace, cun^navi-"
what she saw she could not safely refuse. In this reign Sir gates the
Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe; an exploit which g]£t time.6
8. Concerning the queen of Scots what part was taken by Philip, and what
hostile measures towards England did he pursue ? — 9. What great enterprize
had the Spaniards now in hand ? What appears to have been their expecta-
tion of the result of the invasion ? — IO. How did the queen of England meet
the emergency? Describe the operations and fate of the armada ? What
did the destruction of this armament prove ? — 11. How was it with the par-
liament during this reign ? What was done by Sir Francis Drake ?
334
ATTEMPTS TO COLONIZE AMERICA.
Modern Hii
PERIOD II.
CHAP. I.
1559.
Philip per-
secutes
heretics.
156*.
The Nether-
lands revolt.
filled Europe with astonishment. Commercial relations were
entered into with Russia and Turkey. Elizabeth gave, in 1578,
to Sir Humphrey Gilbert, the first patent to lands in the new
world to which the royal signature of England was affixed.
Gilbert lost his property and life in vain attempts to settle the
country ; when the queen transferred the patent to his brother-
in-law, the scientific and courtly Sir Walter Raleigh. The
navigators sent out by him discovered a fair coast, which the
virgin queen named Virginia, and which Raleigh was at much
expense to colonize ; but his attempts to plant permanent settle-
ments were disastrous failures. Elizabeth* was not particularly
liberal to men of genius ; yet her reign produced William
Shakspeare, the prince of poets.
12. SPAIN AND THE NETHERLANDS.— The treaty of
Chateau Cambresis being concluded, Philip, after endeavoring to
quiet the Netherlands, returned to Spain. Having encountered
a severe storm at sea, on his first landing, he threw himself on
his knees, and in gratitude for his own preservation, vowed to
devote the remainder of his life to destroying heretics ! His ut-
most efforts, aided by the tortures of the Inquisition, were now
exerted for their extirpation, and he gave the monstrous order,
that all heretics in Spain, Italy, the Indies, and the Netherlands,
should forthwith be converted to the Catholic faith or put to
death. The Netherlands had received the doctrines of the re-
formation. They had become wealthy by their commerce and
manufactures, and the free government of their cities had con-
tributed to foster a spirit of liberty. The persecution of Spain
now drove them to revolt.
13. The cruel duke of Alva was sent by Philip, with a
large body of Spanish and Italian soldiers, to reduce the
Dutch to submission. He caused the counts Egmont and
Horn, who had taken the lead, to be executed. William of
Nassau, prince of Orange, who succeeded them in command,
* In speaking of Elizabeth, it is the common place remark, that " though
she was an indifferent woman, she was a first-rate ruler." This is one of
those many expressions, by which ordinary women, who are influenced by
them, are made through their lives a species of larger infants ; and queens,
should any read them, must be led to suppose that queen-craft requires, or
excuses vice. Will the Almighty make such distinctions ? Elizabeth was
a human being placed in authority. Did she do best, the best things ? That
was wise, and some indulgence should be shown for her irregularities of
temper, when she gave her thoughts to the anxious cares of her high voca-
tion. Did she indulge in violent outbreaks of temper ? That is disgraceful
in man or woman. Did she dissemble and act a double part ? That is
wrong in woman or in queen. Isabella of Spain, who but for her bigotry
would have been a better queen, never was insincere, although she had the
example of a beloved husband.
11. With what nations were commercial treaties made ? What was done
in regard to colonizing America? — 12. Give an account of the movements
of Philip of Spain after the treaty of Chateau Cambresis ? What dreadful
order did he give ? What tribunal had he to aid him ? What was the con-
dition of the Netherlands ? What effect had Philip's persecution ? — 13.
What commander was sent against them ? Whom did he cause to be exe-
cuted ? Who succeeded them as the leader of the Dutch ? What difficul-
ties did the Prince of Orange experience ?
THE SEVEN UNITED PROVINCES. 335
enlisted in his service a body of the German protestants; but Mode™ ms.
unable to bring Alva to an engagement, and possessing no for- period ii.
titled place, he was compelled to disband his army. Executions chap. i.
now were numerous, and many of the Dutch fled and took y*^~^>*-'
refuge in England. Their privateers, which had disposed of
prizes in the English ports, were on the remonstrances of the
Spanish court, excluded. This compelled them to seek a har-
bor of their own ; and they seized and fortified the Brille, a port
in Holland. The spirit of the Hollanders revived, and many
towns took sides with the prince of Orange. Alva, fore-
seeing the length and probable result of the war, petitioned to
be recalled; and he returned to Spain to boast, that during the
five years of his command in the Netherlands, 18,000 heretics
had perished by the hands of the public executioner.
14. Re que sens, the Spanish governor who succeeded, tried
the efficacy of milder measures ; but the disease was past reme-
dy, and the inhabitants, smarting under their recent oppressions,
continued the war with various success. A detachment under
Louis, brother to the prince of Orange, was defeated and slain 15^4
by the Spaniards, who next laid siege to Leyden ; but the Dutch Leyden be-
dreaded the Spanish rule more than death, and they opened sieged.
their dykes and sluices. A powerful wind impelled the waters
with fury against the works of the besiegers, and compelled
them to retreat. The Dutch offered the sovereignty of the
Low Countries to Elizabeth, but she prudently declined it,
though she aided them with men and money. At length a 15^6.
treaty, called the pacification of Ghent, was concluded, by which PJ° gjjjjj!*
it was stipulated that all foreign troops should be expelled, and
the inquisition of the Netherlands abolished. Requesens died ; —
Don John of Austria, who succeeded, violated the treaty, and
the war was renewed. Unhappy divisions between the states
had prevented vigorous efforts against the common enemy. The
prince of Orange exerted himself to produce a union, and pro- 15^9.
cured a meeting of deputies at Utrecht, from Holland, Zealand, nce0f Hoi-"
Utrecht, Friesland, Groningen, Overyssel and Guelderland, land cponj-
who signed the articles called the union of the Seven United The" Union
Provinces. Thus commenced the Republic of Holland. 0j- ^e
15. The duke of Parma, one of the most accomplished ^^ Pjq.
generals of the age, now commanded the Spanish forces. The yinces.
states doubting their ability to withstand the power of Spain,
again offered the sovereignty to Elizabeth; and on her second
rejection, to the duke of Anjou. The duke, by an attempt
upon the liberty of the states, lost their confidence, and was
obliged to return to France, where he soon after died. The
13. What was done in respect to a harbor ? What further can you relate
of the duke of Alva? — 14. Who succeeded Alva, and in what temper did
he find the Dutch? What singular measure did the Dutch take at Leyden
to rid themselves of their besiegers? To whom did the Dutch offer the
sovereignty of their country ? Relate the time and place of the meeting of
the deputies — the number of states composing the Republic. — 15. What
commander now appears on the side of the Spanish ? Who on the side of
the Dutch comes at their invitation ? How did he lose their confidence ?
336
THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR OF HOLLAND.
Modern His.
PERIOD IX.
CHAP. I.
1585.
Elizabeth
aids the
Dutch.
(Alva re-
turns, 1673.)
1594.
TURM-
HOUT
The Dutch
defeat the
Spaniards.
1596.
BAY OF
CADIZ.
English and
Dutch de-
feat the
Spanish.
1600.
JWEU-
PORT.
Dutch and
English de-
feat the
Austrians.
command of the confederates devolved upon the prince of
Orange, who, through his whole life was faithful to the liberties
of his countrymen \ but an assassin, whom a reward offered by
Philip had instigated to the ruthless deed, took his life. The
states appointed his son Maurice to succeed him in command.
16. The duke of Parma, having reduced Ghent and Brussels,
besieged Antwerp, the richest and most populous city in the
Netherlands. The inhabitants made every effort to save the
city, but were at last obliged to capitulate. At this disastrous
juncture, when the provinces were ready to sink under con-
tinued efforts, Elizabeth finding her interest now united with
theirs, embarked heartily in their cause. Her favorite, the earl
of Leicester, was dispatched thither, with six thousand En-
glish troops, while Sir Francis Drake was sent to attack the
Spaniards in the West Indies. Leicester, having failed to render
any effectual assistance, was recalled, and lord Willoughby
appointed to the command of the English forces.
17. The duke of Parma was obliged to lead his army into
France in aid of the catholic party, and he was also required
to direct the operations of the " Invincible Armada," and thus ob-
liged to neglect the concerns of the Netherlands. On the death of
that able commander, Mansfield was appointed to succeed
him. Maurice now took Breda, and with the aid of the English,
under Sir Francis Vere, made himself master of Gertruyden-
berg and Groningen. At Turnhout, in Brabant, they obtained
a complete victory over the Spaniards. In 1597, the Dutch and
English squadrons made a joint attack upon the Spanish fleet,
in the bay of Cadiz ; destroyed it, and took the city. Philip
now began to think of peace; but as the states would hearken
to no terms which did not recognize their independence, he
chose rather to transfer his dominion over the revolted pro-
vinces to his daughter Isabella, who was affianced to Albert,
duke of Austria.
18. Albert, after his marriage, endeavored to prevail on the
United Provinces to submit, by promises of lenity. They dis-
regarded his advances, and resolved upon liberty or death.
Albert then issued a decree, excluding them from all intercourse
with Spain, Portugal, and the Spanish Netherlands. This,
though designed to injure their commerce, had a contrary effect,
and changed the current of their trade, without lessening its
profit. The hostile parties now strengthened their armies.
Prince Maurice enlisted bodies of Germans, Swiss, and French.
The arch-duke received supplies from Spain, Italy, and Ger-
15. What further can you relate of the prince of Orange? Who suc-
ceeded him ? — 16. What city was now besieged ? What course was now
taken by the queen of England ? Whom did she send ? How did Leices-
ter succeed?— IT. Examine the operations detailed in this paragraph, and
say which has the advantage. Why did the duke of Parma neglect the
affairs of the Netherlands. What engagements are related ? What city
in Spain is taken ? What passed in respect to a treaty of peace ? What
transfer was made ? — 18. What measures were taken by Albert to induce
submission ? How did each party strengthen its army ?
PORTUGAL UNITED TO SPAIN.
337
many. A sanguinary battle was fought at 1ST ieuport, near Ostend,
in West Flanders, in which the Dutch and English obtained
the victory.
19. Albert soon took the field with a powerful force, and sat
down before Ostend. After a memorable siege of three years,
which cost the archduke the lives of 70,000 men, Ostend ca-
pitulated. Prince Maurice, meanwhile, had reduced seven
towns, which more than balanced its loss. After prosecuting
the war two years longer, the court of Spain retaining posses-
sion of the ten provinces, treated with the seven who had ac-
ceded to the union as an independent nation. A truce of
twelve years was concluded, during which their civil and re-
ligious liberties were guarantied to the states. Through the
energy and persevering industry of the Dutch, their commerce
was extended and their wealth increased. The East India Com-
pany was established during this period.
20. While Philip II. had lost the Netherlands, he had ac-
quired Portugal. Don Sebastian, the sovereign, under the in-
fluence of the Jesuits, attempted an invasion of Morocco. Sailing
for Africa with an army of 20,000 men, his forces were defeated,
and he was slain in battle. He was succeeded in his kingdom
by his uncle, cardinal Henry. On his dying childless, the
line of succession was broken, and many claimants to the crown
arose. Philip, although not possessed of the best right, was the
most powerful ; and he was accordingly crowned king of Por-
tugal. The whole Spanish peninsula, now united under one
monarch, was, on the death of Philip II., transmitted to his son,
Philip III.
Modern His
160tt.
Independ-
ence of Hoi-
land(one
year before
the first ef-
fectual set-
tlement of
the old 13
U. States.)
Portu-
gal uni-
ted to
Spain.
Philip I O
II. ^
1598.
Philip
II.
ea
re-
CHAPTER II.
France.
1. Francis I. dying in France, his son Henry II. succeed
him. The death of Henry II., shortly after the treaty of Camb
sis, left the throne of France to his son, Francis II. This king-
dom was now a scene of contention. The protestant religion had
taken a deep hold of the affections of the French people, and
numbered among its disciples the prince of Conde, admiral
Coligni, and many other important personages. The Guises
1547-
Henry 51.
Francis II.
and Mary
queen of
Scots, king
and queen
of France.
18. Where was a battle fought, and with what result ? — 19. Give an ac-
count of the siege and capture of Ostend. What had prince Maurice gained ?
What is said of the measures of the court of Spain ? What treaty was
made ? What did the industry of the Dutch effect? — 20. What accession
had Philip of Spain received ? Who were the last sovereigns ? Why was
Philip made king ?
Chap. II. — 1. Who succeeded Henry II. of France? Who was now
queen of France ? What was the state of the kingdom ? Who were the
Protestant leaders ?
43
338
CATHARINE DE MEDICI.
Modern His.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. II.
Persecution
of the
protestants.
The Jesuits.
(The spread
of the so-
ciety of Je-
suits was
wonderful;
in Loyola's
life they
numbered
100 colleges.
In 1608 there
were
10,581 Je-
suits.)
1560.
Catharine
de Medici
iegent.
were at the head of the Catholic party ; and in fact, through
their influence over the young and feeble Francis, they were at
this period at the head of the whole French nation. Swayed
by a furious zeal against the Protestants, and not satisfied with
influencing the councils of the young king, they plotted to gain
possession of his person, and force him into all their measures.
The queen-mother, Catharine de Medici, more from ambition
than maternal regard, opposed them. This led them to the
adoption of milder measures. Conde, who had been made pri-
soner, was released. Shortly after, the Guises recovered their
influence with the court.
2. The see of Rome had a powerful support in the Jesuits.
When Loyola threw himself with all the intrepidity of his en-
thusiastic character into the formation of this order, both the
pope and the inquisition opposed him ; but subsequently they
adopted the society and turned it to their purposes. Paul III.
confirmed the order in 1540, and the next year Loyola was
created general, or. grand master of the society, with powers
subordinate only to the pope. Its seat was at Rome, whence
missions were sent to every part of the Old and New World ;
which, in reference to this society, was divided into twelve pro-
vinces. After Loyola's death, which occurred in 1556, the order
was in a degree remodeled. Its main object then became, to de-
fend the supreme authority of the papacy, and for this purpose
to control public opinion ; — to work by good or bad means, as
would most effect the downfall of its foes, or the elevation of its
friends. The Jesuits by private tokens knew each other ; but
mingling in all the walks of social life, they were not known to
the uninitiated, who were thus surrounded by spies. Monarchs,
whom they daily approached as confessors, were blindly wrought
upon to do the will of this dark and dangerous order ; and their
secret councils were too often betrayed and transmitted to Rome.
3. The sudden death of Francis II. transferred the supreme
authority to his mother, who exercised the office of regent dur-
ing the minority of her second son, Charles IX. Catharine
sought to render her own power paramount, by balancing
opposite factions, and steering a middle course between them.
De l'Hopital, whom she made chancellor, was an upright and
honest man ; and notwithstanding he was a catholic, he in-
fluenced the queen to show some favor to the protestants. A
meeting of catholic and protestant divines took place at Poissy,
where the cardinal Lorraine, on the part of the former, and
1. Who the Catholic, and what was their influence and power? Who
was Catharine de Medici, and what part did she take? — 2. By whom
had Loyola, in the first founding of his society, been opposed ? What
did these parties subsequently do ? When and by whom was the society
confirmed ? What success had Loyola as regarded his society, during his
lifetime ? There appears to have been a change as to the objects of the so-
ciety after his death, explain what it was. — 3. What event placed Catha-
rine de Medici in power ? What policy did she pursue ? What counsellor
had she, and how did he influence her ? Where did the two parties hold a
conference ?
THE HUGUENOTS.
339
Modern His.
Theodore Beza on that of the latter, held a theological dis-
pute, but without coming to any amicable understanding. Mean- period ii.
while, a deputation from the different parliaments of the king- chap. n.
dom, published an edict granting toleration to the protestants, or
Huguenots as they were called, and permitting them to assemble
for worship without the walls of towns and cities. The Guises
left the court, indignant that such a favor should be granted to
heretics. But during the absence of the queen and court from
Paris, the duke of Guise returned thither, and upon his arrival
the populace rose in his favor, and evinced great zeal in the
catholic cause.
4. The protestants prevailed in the south and west of France,
and, under the prince of Conde, made Orleans their head quarters.
The catholics entered into a league with Philip of Spain, and England
the protestants with Elizabeth of England. Havre de Grace was ^nd s/ain
ltttBricrti
yielded to Elizabeth, and a body of 6,000 troops furnished by
her. The catholics besieged Rouen, which, after a bloody de-
fence, surrendered. Anthony of Bourbon, king of Navarre,
who had at first favored, but afterwards abandoned the protestant ^^j-
cause, was here slain. His queen, Jeanne d'Albret, with her Guise and
young son, afterwards the gallant Henry TV., still adhered to the ^"fea°uhe
protestants. The first important battle was fought at Dreux, protestants/
where the prince of Conde, and admiral Coligni commanded the an^CoUgnL
protestants ; the duke of Guise and the constable Montmorenci
the catholics. The contest was obstinate, but terminated in the p0itrot as-
defeat of the protestants. Admiral Coligni retreated from the fuSS}^te^{
field with the remnant of the army, and the prince of Conde Guise,
was made prisoner. The duke of Guise, not long after, was
shot by an assassin while engaged in the siege of Orleans.
5. An accommodation now took place, and the protestants
were granted the liberty of worship within those towns of which
they were in possession. This was, however, soon abridged.
A meeting between Charles IX. and his sister, the queen of 1566.
Spain, was arranged to take place at Bayonne, in France, near The Holy
the Pyrenees. At this conference, which Catharine, and the League,
duke of Alva, as minister of Philip, attended, «the Holy ' ^e£*g£
League" was formed for the extirpation of heresy. Meanwhile |56§.
the cardinal Lorraine was at Rome, concerting measures with st. dems.
the pope for carrying the designs of the leaguers into effect. ™!j defeat"
The protestants under Conde and Coligni, again resorted to the protest-
arms ; a battle was fought at St. Denis, five miles north of Paris,
3. Who were the chief speakers? Was any good done? What edict
was published ? What persons were offended, and why ? What is further
said of the duke of Guise ? — *. What part of France favored the protestants ?
Who commanded, and where did they make their head-quarters? What
foreign powers were now interested in the dispute ? What place yielded to
the English ? What happened at the siege of Rouen ? What parties were
opposed at the battle of Dreux, and what were the results? What assas-
sination occurred ? — 5. What engagement was made to the protestants, and
how was it kept ? As the league here mentioned was important, be particu-
lar in relating who formed it, — when it was formed, — where, — and what
was its object ? Where was the cardinal Lorraine ? Relate the battle of
St. Denis ?
340
THE MOTHER OF HENRY IV.
Modern His-
PERIOD II.
CHAP. II.
The Lame
Peace.
JARNAC.
Protestants
defeated.
Henry de
Bourbon,
King of Na-
varre,
then 16.
1569.
JtfOJV-
C ON-
TO UR.
Henry of
Anjou de-
feats the
protestants,
whose loss
is 10,000.
(Catharine
de Medici,
she personi-
fication of
the Italian
and Spanish
state-craft,
or Machia-
vellian poli-
cy, so called
from Ma-
chiavelli,
who does
but give its
rules.)
in which the aged constable, Montmorenci, commander of the
catholics, was slain. The protestants, however, were at length
driven from the field. They next laid siege to Chartres ; during
which time, Catharine with her usual artifice, betook herself to
negotiations, and another treaty, called the " Lame peace," was
concluded.
6. This was soon infringed by an order, dictated by the
double-dealing Catharine, to arrest Conde and Coligni for trea-
son. They, having kept themselves on their guard, escaped,
and again placed themselves at the head of the protestant forces.
At Jarnac they met and were defeated by Henry duke of An-
jou, brother of the king. Conde fell in the battle. This de-
feat, and more especially the death of their commander, threat-
ened ruin to the protestants. Many of the officers refused to
obey Coligni, and dissensions ran high in their ranks. At this
juncture, the intrepid, Jeanne d'Albret, queen of Navarre,
stepped forward, animated the dispirited protestants by her zeal,
and furnished them with funds. " Despair not,"" said she, pre-
senting her young son, " behold the new chief whom heaven has
sent to command you." From this time Henry was acknowl-
edged as their leader, although the more experienced Coligni
yet guided their councils. He strained every nerve, in again pre-
paring the troops for action. Poictiers, commanded by the
young duke or Guise, was besieged, but an epidemic disorder
in the camp compelled Coligni to raise the siege.
7. Henry of Anjou now appeared in the field, and Coligni,
urged by his troops, many of whom were German auxiliaries,
anxious to return to their homes, hazarded a battle. The plains
of Moncontour now witnessed the entire defeat of the protest-
ants. Coligni, though severely wounded, was soon in the field
at the head of another formidable army. Having obtained some
successes which inspirited his troops, the court commenced ne-
gotiations, and a treaty highly favorable to the protestants was
concluded. Liberty of worship in their towns was again
granted ; and their well-grounded fears of treachery were lulled
by their being permitted to garrison four strong places, Rochelle,
Montauban, Cognac, and La Charte, as guarantees that the con-
ditions would be observed. But the most horrible perfidy was
meditated. The design of the court was no other than to lull
the fears of the protestant leaders, draw them to the capital, and
other cities, and then massacre them all.
8. On various pretexts, they were induced to come to Paris.
Coligni, ever true to his country, was incited by the prospect
of commanding in a war with Philip of Spain, for the recovery
5. What peace was next made ? Have you read of any peace made by
that bad woman which did not prove a " lame peace" to those who put any
faith in her engagements? — ©. How did she infringe this treaty ? What oc-
curred at the battle of Jarnac ? What was done by Jeanne d' Albret ? How
was young Henry regarded ? — 7. What parties engaged at Montcontour?
What was the result? What did Coligni? What treaty was now made?
What was the design of Catharine and her party ?■ — 8. How and where
were the leaders of the protestants collected ?
THE MASSACRE OF ST. BARTHOLOMEW. 341
of Flanders. He was received with the most devoted respect, Mode™ H^'
consulted on every occasion, and addressed by the young mon- period ii.
arch with the title of father. The virtuous queen of Navarre chap. ii.
came with Henry, her gallant son, then seventeen. A marriage ^""vx-'
had been proposed for him, with Margaret, the sister of the
king ; but the suspicious eye of maternal affection saw treachery
in the caresses of Catharine ; and she withheld her consent. She i^wo
died suddenly, probably by poison. The negotiations for the August n.
marriage proceeded : and the leaders of the protestants through- Marriage of
T^ ° r ' , tt, . t N (. . . *? Henry with
out h ranee were summoned to Fans to celebrate its festivities. Margaret.
The wedding took place on the 17th of August, and Paris re-
sounded with mirth and revelry.
9. At the stillness of midnight, on St. Bartholomew's eve.
August 24th, the tocsin bell of St. Germain L'Auxerrois, awoke
the inhabitants of Paris. It was the signal to begin the dread-
ful massacre ; and the morning light looked upon more tnan ten Aug. 24.
thousand bleeding corpses of the protestants, strewed through- sf^0/^^
out the streets, and within the houses and sanctuaries of the iomew.
city. Warriors, women, infants, and old men were slain. In
other parts of France, there were put to death sixty thousand more. More than
The catholic family of Montmorenci gave funeral honors to the 70Sa°GreaaS~
mangled remains of Coligni. Pope Pius V., on hearing of the
massacre, was affected to tears; but Gregory XII. who at this
time succeeded him, insulted the majesty of heaven by return-
ing public thanks for these atrocious cruelties.
10. The king was, meanwhile, seized with all the horrors of
remorse. When the assassins, who had acted by his authority,
came to relate, and make a merit of their bloody deeds, the
spectators beheld him shuddering as if with cold. He hated
from that time his wicked mother and the Guises. " I know a;fde™e0artSh0f
not," said he to his confidential physician, " what has happened Charles ix.
to me, but in mind and body I am shaking as in a fever. It (Men?oirsy)S
seems to me every moment, whether waking or sleeping, that ^5^4
mangled bodies present themselves to me with hideous faces,
and covered with blood." No earthly medicine could reach
the seat of his disease ; and he died at the chateau of Vincennes
in the most agonizing tortures, and bathed in his own blood,
which oozed from his veins.
11. His brother, Henry of Anjou, was proclaimed as Henry Henry m.
III. He was not at the time in France, but in Poland, where
he had been elected king. The catholics, two years after his tjjwjg.
accession, formed the celebrated league for the defence of reli- rpjjg
gion, at the head of which was Henry, duke of Guise. War league,
was declared against Henry, king of Navarre, who had escaped
the massacre of St. Bartholomew : and, after having been kept
three years a prisoner of state, had regained his liberty. The
' (f These
8. What marriage had been proposed for Henry of Navarre? What wj"s were»
happened to his mother? When did the marriage take place? — U. Give an however,
account of the massacre of St. Bartholomew. — IO. Of the remorse and cMed the
death of Charles IX. — 1 1. The war which followedtwas called the war of wars of th=?
the three Henrys — who were the three ? league.)
342 THE WARS OF THE LEAGUE.
Modern His, league had in the field two armies, each 20,000 strong, while
period ii. the king of Navarre could raise at the most, only 5,000 men ;
chap. ii. yet his valor and abilities, and that of his few followers' sus-
tained him. At Coutras he encountered an army of the royal-
ists, which he defeated, but was unable to reap the advantages
Navarre de- of victory; for he had no means of paying his troops, and a
great part of them left him soon after the battle.
12. The designs of the league became apparent. Guise was
openly solicited to dethrone the king of France, and take the
sceptre into his own hands. This he dared not do ; but he in-
stigated the Parisians, who had organized a military force of
Deathofthe 20,000 men, to seize the person of the sovereign. The Pari-
Senfassa- s*ans fei^d m tne^r attempt, and Guise proceeded to Paris to ac-
creofst. complish it himself; but the king escaped, and took refuge at
Bamew!°" Rouen. Guise, finding many difficulties in the way of his usur-
pation, entered into a compromise with the king of France, and
was appointed lieutenant-general of the kingdom. Henry, how-
ever, felt himself unsafe upon his throne, while his rival was in
being ; and Guise was assassinated by his orders, as he was en-
tering the council chamber. His brother, the cardinal, was sent
to prison, where he was shortly after slain ; and about this time
died, too, that faithless queen, and wicked woman, Catharine de
Medici.
13. The pope now denounced the king of France as a here-
enne tic, and the partisans of the league, incensed against him for the
head of assassination of their leader, placed the duke of Mayenne, the
League, surviving brother of Guise at its head. In these circumstances,
Henry of France leagued with Henry of Navarre, who, at the
Henry head of their united forces, marched to Paris, and invested it.
sassina"- The French monarch retired to St. Cloud, where the dagger of
ted. a monk, suborned by the duchess of Montpensier, sister to the
duke of Guise, accomplished his death. When dying, he named
Henry of Navarre his successor. He now claimed the throne
of France, and assumed the title of Henry IV. The duke of
15§S?. ]Y[ayenne caused the cardinal Bourbon, to be proclaimed under
iv. the name of Charles X. ; but he being a prisoner at Tours, May-
enne took the whole command of the war.
14. Henry met the veteran army of the league at Arques,
AR. with a force not one quarter of their number. Hard pressed,
ques. his little army overpowered, Henry rushed into the thickest of
defeats the battle, and exclaimed, " Are there not fifty gentlemen to die
May- witn tnen- king ?» The faltering troops rallied ; renewed the
fight ; and became masters of the field, Henry soon after re-
ceived reinforcements from England, while Mayenne obtained
11. Give a more particular account of Henry of Navarre. Of the bat-
tle of Coutras. — 12. What were the designs and the conduct of Henry
of Guise in relation to the sovereignty of France ? How did Henry of France
keep the treaty of peace? What other plotters of the great massacre died
about this time? — 13. What was now done by the pope and the partisans
of the league ? What by Henry of France ? What by Henry of Navarre ?
What was done by the agency of the duchess of Montpensier ? Whom did
Henry III. declare his successor ? — 14. Relate the battle of Arques.
enne.
HENRY IV. 343
supplies from Spain. Disastrous was now the civil war which Mode™ His.
wasted the fair fields of France, where brothers and former period n.
friends were shedding each other's blood.* On the plain of Ivry chap. ir.
another battle took place. Henry, in directing it, said to his *^r~^~^~/
troops, " If you lose your standards, follow my white plume ; 1590.
you will find it in the way to victory and honor." His predic- Hen^fagain
tion was accomplished, and his enemies defeated. victorious.
15. Henry had invested the capital, and while his warlike
attitude made him feared, he showed the kindness of his dispo-
sition, by using every effort to induce the Parisians to submit ; jk«mv
but they refused. His heart was pained to witness the distress Henry be-
to which they were reduced by famine, and he suffered those sieges Paris,
i -tit i . i • i • • c x j which is re-
who wished to leave the city to pass his lines m satety ; and lievedbythe
even, — although blamed by his officers, — granted a passage to s^S"d8
several convoys of provision, destined for the city. Mean- Parma,
while the duke of Mayenne, who had been to Flanders, returned
reinforced by Spanish troops, under the duke of Parma. Henry
was compelled to withdraw his forces from the siege, to oppose
the Spaniards ; whom, however, he was at last unable to bring
to a combat. Their object being the relief of the city, when
that was accomplished, they withdrew from France.
16. The cardinal of Bourbon was now dead. The exploits
of Henry had filled Europe with his martial fame. The strict-
ness with which he kept his faith when once plighted, and the 1594.
constancy of his attachment to his friends, made him confided Henry is re-
in ; and he had displayed a benevolence, which should have Some and
touched the hearts of the people. But worn out as France was ^np°dw-„
with the wars of the league, still such was the bigotry of the patenters
times, that Henry wras convinced that he could not obtain the as kmg"
crown unless he became a catholic. The protestant divines
counselled him rather to renounce protestantism, than to con-
tinue the war. He accordingly did so, and was received into
the bosom of the catholic church. By this measure, the league elation!"
received a blow from which it could never recover. Paris ca- (A measure
pitulated, and Henry was received into the city as king of morality
France. The provinces gradually followed the example of the anp0j"cyr"e
capital, until at length the whole nation submitted. Mayenne,
supported by the Spanish interest, continued for a time in arms ;
* It was daring these wars that the marquis of Rosny, afterwards the
duke of Sully, and ever attached to the fortunes of Henry, hearing that his
wife was dangerously ill, went in disguise, with a few followers, to his
castle, to visit her. His brothers (catholics) had taken his castle, and deaf
to his earnest pleadings, refused to admit him to visit his dying wife. The
daring Rosny prepared to attack his own castle, when his brothers, rather
from fear than from pity or affection, permitted him to enter.
14. What foreign nations furnished troops, and what was the character
of the war? Relate the battle of Ivry. — 15. How did Henry conduct the
siege of Paris ? How was he compelled to withdraw his army from the
siege? — 16. How was Henry situated in 1594? To what was he coun-
selled by protestant divines, and what did he do ? What was the effect of
his recantation on Paris ? On other parts of France ? What did the duke
of Mayenne ?
344
EDICT OF NANTZ.
Modern His.
PERIOD II.
CHAP. II.
1596-
Calais and
Amiens Ta-
ken by the
Spaniards.
Amiens re-
covered.
1598.
Edict of
Nantes.
Peace of
Vervins,
Duke of
Sully.
(Sully was
not a syco-
phant. On
one occasion
Henry con-
sulted him
respecting a
paper by
which he
was about
to bind him-
self to a
foolish en-
gagement.
Sully tore
it,— and
Henry for-
gave him.)
Henry's
plan for abo-
lishing war,
by uniting
Europe in a
grand con-
federacy.
but after the pope had absolved Henry, this officer made his
submission, was received into favor, and ever after remained a
firm friend to his sovereign.
17. The opposition of the protestants, whose suspicions began
to be excited by a delay in securing their rights, and by the dis-
posal of all the great offices to the catholics, prevented Henry
from carrying on vigorously the war against Spain. The
Spaniards took Calais and Amiens, and it was with difficulty
that Henry could, in the exhausted state of his finances, raise
an army to withstand them. At length, at the head of such
forces as he could assemble, he advanced to Amiens, which he
invested, and compelled the city to surrender. He next came
to an accommodation with the protestants, granting them, by
the celebrated edict of Nantes, the enjoyment of their religion,
and admission to public offices. Ambassadors now met at Ver-
vins, where a peace icith Spain was concluded, on terms favor-
able to France.
18. Although policy compelled Henry to grant most of the
high offices to catholics, yet his chosen friend and counsellor,
from the beginning to the end of his career, was a protestant.
This was the wise duke of Sully. The economy and discreet
management of 'this minister, brought the totally deranged
finances of the kingdom to order, and soon placed at the dispo-
sal of his beloved monarch, a well furnished treasury. Henry,
constantly seconded by Sully, followed the bent of his benevo-
lent heart, in studying to promote the welfare of his kingdom.
Commerce, agriculture, and manufactures, all received a new
impulse. Nor did he limit his desires of doing good to his own
subjects, but he conceived the bold design of banishing war
from Europe, by uniting the great powers in one confederacy ;
establishing a grand council after the model of the Amphicty-
onic, to which all the principal states of Europe should send
their delegates, and refer their differences. Sully at first op-
posed his views as visionary, but afterwards entered fully into
them. Elizabeth of England, for whom Henry had a high re-
spect, was also a party to the scheme.* It was the opinion of
these sovereigns, that the house of Austria must first be hum-
bled before this project could be carried into effect. The death
of Elizabeth was deplored by Henry ; yet he proceeded to make
* This is stated on the authority of the duke of Sully — see his " Memoirs."
Some writers have treated Henry's great design with levity, considering it
as a mere covering to his views against the house of Austria. The charac-
ter of Elizabeth makes it not improbable that this motive was predominant
with her ; but Henry had a great and benevolent heart as well as a fertile
mind, and he was not a man of pretences.
IT. With what were the protestants displeased ? How did the war with
Spain proceed ? By what edict were the protestants quieted? What treaty
was made with Spain ? — 18. Give an account of the duke of Sully ? What
did he in regard to the finances ? In what did he aid his friend and sove-
reign ? What bold and philanthropic design had Henry formed ? Who en-
tered into his views ? What was believed must be done before they could
be accomplished ?
ASTRONOMY CULTIVATED IN GERMANY.
345
vast preparations for the accomplishment of his design ; but he
was cut off in the midst of them, by the dagger of Ravaillac, an
obscure assassin. The French nation wept for him as for a
father. The vile assassin, — whose name the afflicted Sully-
never would pronounce, — suffered a terrible death
19. Henry IV. as has been related, married at an early age,
Margaret, sister to the king of France. He afterwards divorced
her, and married Mary de Medici, a weak and passionate
woman, whom he too often irritated by his prominent fault, a
want of conjugal fidelity. She on her part, incapable of appre-
ciating the noble energies of his character, or seeking by discreet
measures to win his wandering affections, did but make herself
disagreeable by continual reproaches, and by keeping around
her, Italian favorites, whom he particularly disliked.
20. GERMANY.-— Ferdinand I., the younger son of Philip
the Handsome, and the insane Joanna, succeeding his brother
Charles V. as emperor of Germany, occupied his short reign
in honest endeavors to compose the religious differences which
agitated the empire ; and in prosecuting claims to the crowns of
Hungary and Bohemia, which he derived by his marriage with
the heiress, Anne, daughter of Ladislaus. In these countries
the Turks resisted him and made conquests. In the diet of
Ratisbon, assembled soon after his accession, the " Peace of
Religion" was confirmed. The council of Trent was reassem-
bled in 1562. The whole body of protestants rejected its
dogmas, and denied its authority ; as did a portion of the catho-
lics. It is memorable as being the last called a general
council.
21. Maximilian II., son and successor of Ferdinand, was
early in his reign engaged in war with Solyman I., with whom
his father had unsuccessfully contended, and who was now
bent on the conquest of Germany. The success of the imperial
generals checked the progress of the Ottoman arms, and on the
death of Solyman, his son and successor Selim II., concluded
a peace of twelve years. Maximilian was succeeded by his son
Rodolph II., during whose long reign, the empire continued
almost undisturbed by intestine broils. He was himself of a
peaceful temper, and devoted much of his time to the study of
astronomy, in company with Tycho Brahe and Kepler. His
brother Matthias conducted the war with the Turks, who had
invaded Hungary ; and the renown and influence he acquired
by his success, enabled him to obtain the crown of Hungary,
and make himself master of Austria and Moravia, all of which
Modern His.
1610.
Henry as-
sassinated
(by the insti-
gation of the
Jesuits, who
are offended
at the Edict
of JYantz.)
1558.
Ferdi-
nand I.
Peace
of Re-
ligion.
1564.
Maxi-
milian
II.
to
o
o
3
3
15?6
Ro-
dolph II. j
The two
greatest as-
tronomers
of the age.
18. What hindered his attempting to accomplish his great and good plan ?
— 19. What account can you give of Mary de Medici? — 20. Who was
Ferdinand I? To what part of the honors of his brother did he succeed ?
How was his reign occupied ? What was done by the diet of Ratisbon ?
What account can you give of the council of Trent? — 21 . Who succeeded
Ferdinand? Who was his and his father's adversary, and what was he
grasping at? How did the Turkish war terminate? Give an account of
the next emperor? What great astronomers were his contemporaries?
What kingdom did his brother obtain ?
44
34b
CYPRUS CONQ.UERED BY THE TURKS.
Modern His.
Solyman
dies M. 70.
Selim, his
son, suc-
15*1.
Turks con-
quer Cy-
prus.
LEPANTO.
The allies
defeat the
Turks in a
memorable
naval battle.
Turks lose
30,000 ;
Christians
10,000.
Turks and
Christians
make peace.
Rodolph confirmed to him, rather than his own peace and that
of the empire should be disturbed.
22. THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE.— The sultan Solyman, be-
sides the war which he carried on with the German empire,
during the reign of Maximilian, had despatched a fleet and army
to reduce the island of Malta, where the knights of St. Johnfhad
been established, and still maintained themselves. The Turkish
general, Mustapha, besieged the island ; but the governor of
Sicily coming to the aid of the knights, the Turks, after a siege
of five months, were obliged to abandon the enterprise with the
loss of 24,000 men.
23. Selim II. after having concluded a peace with Germany,
turned his arms eastward ; but failing in his attempt to reduce
Persia, he invaded the island of Cyprus, which belonged to the
republic of Venice. A league was formed between the pope,
Pius V., the king of Spain, and the Venetians, for its defence.
Their forces failing to arrive in season, the Turks conquered
Cyprus, and subjected its inhabitants to the most inhuman
cruelties. They extended their ravages to the coasts of Italy, Dal-
matia, and Istria. The pope, the Spaniards, and the Venetians,
assembled their fleet, and a naval engagement between them and
the Turks took place in the gulf of Lepanto. For duration,
fierceness, and destruction of human life, it was at that period
unequalled. The Christians, commanded by Don John of
Austria, were at length victorious. The following season,
however, Selim equipped another fleet, which again spread the
terror of the Turkish arms. Philip soon found his attention
drawn to the Low Countries ; and the Venetians concluded a
treaty, by which Cyprus was left in possession of the Turks.
Tunis, which had been taken by Don John of Austria, was re-
taken by the sultan. The three sovereigns who immediately
succeeded Selim, did not extend the Turkish conquests.
22. Give an account of the siege of Malta and its result ? — 23. Of the
conquest of Cyprus ? Of the battle of Lepanto ? Of the Turkish depreda-
tions ?
The Pilgrims in the Cabin of the May-Flower, 1620.
PERIOD III.
FROM
THE ASSASSINATION > 16IO. \ OF HENRY IV.
THE EXECUTION
CHARLES
^0F|l648.£
AND THE TREATY
OF WESTPHALIA.
CHAPTER I.
The Scandinavian Nations. — Germany.
1. The Scandinavian Nations are those west of the Baltic,
Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Their history during the dark
ages is that of unprincipled freebooters, — bloody pirates, — who
looked upon the more peaceful and wealthy, as the wolf upon
the well-fed lamb. We have seen how, under the names of
Sea-kings, Danes, and Normans, they ravaged and conquered
England, — and caused Charlemagne to weep for the miseries
which he saw that these, the only barbarians of Europe unsub-
dued by his martial genius, would yet inflict upon his people.
We have seen them, under Rollo, overcome and give their name
to the west of France, and thence through William the Con-
queror, Robert Guiscard, and his brother Roger, give law to
England, Naples, and Sicily. In the great movement of the
crusades, some of the most distinguished leaders, Bohemond
and Tancred, were of this stock. The abandonment of their
barbarous and sanguinary customs was owing in part to their
intercourse with more civilized nations; but chiefly to Chris-
Modem His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
(826, The
first convert
Harold a
Danish
prince, bap-
tized at In-
gelheim
Part III. — Chap. I. — 1. Which were called the Scandinavian nations?
What were the people during the dark ages? What in the course of the
history has already been related of them ? To what causes was the change
in their barbarous customs owing ?
347
348
MARGARET OP WALDEMAR.
Modern His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
13§9.
FAL CO-
PING, in
Gothland.
Margaret
defeats Al-
bert.
(The Union
of Calmar
was re-
nounced in
1449.)
1513.
Christian II.
the Wicked,
(marries
Isabella, the
sister of
Charles V.
grand
daughter
of Isabella
of Spain.)
1523.
Is expelled
from Swe-
den by Gus-
tavus Vasa
tianity, which was introduced into Denmark in the ninth
century, into Norway in the tenth, and into Sweden in the
eleventh.
2. The union of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under
Margaret of Waldemar, " the Semiramis of the North,"
greatly contributed to their common advantage. She was the
daughter of Waldemar II., king of Denmark. By her talents
and address she obtained, on her father's death, contrary to the
Salic custom of the Danes, peaceable possession of the sove-
reignty. On the death of her husband, Haquin, king of Nor-
way, she in the same peaceable manner, in the face of custom
and prescription, made herself queen of the admiring Norwe-
gians ; and such was her fame for wisdom and energy, that
when the Swedes were oppressed by Albert, a German con-
queror, they invited her aid. She went with an army, defeated
Albert in battle, and made him prisoner. After seven years of
war, occurred the " Union of Calmar," by which the three
nations formally united in a confederacy, each having its own
legislature, but under the same monarch. They elected Mar-
garet. She established many wise regulations, and during her
reign great advances were made in commerce and the arts.
But she was absolute*, and when the nobility reminded her, that
they had records of her oath to observe restrictions, she replied,
" You had better keep them, as I shall the castles and cities of
my kingdom, and all else pertaining to my dignity." She had
no child, but adopted Eric, a grand-nephew, who proved a
weak prince, and unequal to lis station.
3. A period of war and confusion succeeded, when Swe-
den had a separate king. In 1513, Christian II., called the
" Nero of the North," was king of Denmark and Norway.
Sweden was divided into two parties, and Troll, archbishop of
Upsal, encouraged Christian to invade that kingdom. He killed
the king, Steen Sture, in battle, a.nd was acknowledged by the
diet. He then made a great feast, and treacherously slew his
guests, — ninety-four nobles and bishops, — after which he let
loose his troops upon the people; and Sweden bled at every
pore. Gustavus Vasa, the son of a nobleman, fled and con-
cealed himself among the mountains of Dalecarlia, whence he
issued with a resolute band. All his countrymen rose at his
signal of revolt, against the man whom they all hated. They
expelled the Danes, and placed Gustavus on the throne. He
encouraged agriculture and commerce, improved the Swedish
jurisprudence; — and on the breaking out of the Reformation,
he, with the Swedish people, received its doctrines. It was in
2. What union contributed to advance their prosperity ? Whose daughter
was Margaret, and what throne did she ascend on his death ? Who was
her husband, and in what manner did she succeed to his authority ? What
were the circumstances of her becoming the sovereign of Sweden ? What
particulars can you give of the Union of Calmar? — 3. What was the con-
dition of these nations in 1513? What account can you give of Christian
II.? Of Gustavus Vasa?
THE THIRTY YEARS* WAR BEGINS. 349
defence of these that we are soon to see his descendant, the M°de™ #»*-
great Gustavus Adolphus come forward as the hero of his peri'd hi.
age. With him to command her armies, and his able minister
Oxenstiern to manage her revenues and internal police, Sweden
rose, in this period, to a first rate power. After the dissolution
of the Union of Calmar, Norway became again confederated
with Denmark, each of the two states having its own assembly,
but both under the same king.
4. At the death of Rodolph, the imperial throne was given 1612/
to his brother, the archduke Matthias. The protestant Mat-
princes of the German confederation had formed a league called
u The Evangelical Union." Matthias had hitherto shown him- m.
self friendly to them, but they now pressing him for an exten- -pvaT,
sion of their privileges, he resisted their demands, and they ffpi:pai
complained that he encroached upon their rights, and took up iTnjftn
arms. This proved the beginning of the thirty years' war. formed'
Matthias procured the crowns of Bohemia and Hungary for his 1608.
cousin Ferdinand, the duke of Styria, whom he designed for
his successor in the empire. These measures alarmed the Hun-
garians and Bohemians, who took part with the revolted princes 16 19.
of the Evangelical Union. Amidst these disorders Matthias JSini
died, and Ferdinand II. was raised to the imperial throne. The (duke of
Bohemians continued their revolt, deposed Ferdinand, and p^ede-
elected to the sovereignty of that kingdom, Frederic V., elec- ric v. J
tor palatine of the Rhine, who had married the daughter of
James I., reigning sovereign of England. Besides the support
of the protestant princes of the empire, Frederic received the
aid of Bethlem Gabor, the chief or vaivode of Transylvania, ^•deri<?f
a tributary of the grand sultan; a body of 8,000 troops from ancestors of
the Low Countries°under Henry of Nassau, and 2,000 Eng- t5£5Jj*J.Jf
lish volunteers. His preparations were, however, inadequate
for the war, in which he had to withstand the united strength
of the house of Austria,— the emperor, the king of Spain, and
the arch-duke of Austria. Their army being commanded by jfjoo
Tilly, defeated that of Frederic at Prague. The imperialists pragu'e.
drove him from his palatinate, and degraded him from his ^J^Jists'Sm-
electoral dignity, which was conferred upon the duke of Ba- derTiiiyde-
varia. Frederic's father-in-law refused in this extremity to J^Hoi pa-
aid him, much to the annoyance of his subjects; the English latine.
considering that their king showed himself, by this neglect,
false to the protestant cause.
5. Ferdinand, after crushing a league of the northern powers,
3. Of Gustavus Adolphus ? Who was his minister ? — 4, Who succeed-
ed Rodolph in the German empire ? What league was formed by the pro-
testant princes? By what actions did Matthias manifest a grasping dispo-
sition ? What proved the beginning of the thirty years war ? Who joined
the princes of the Evangelical Union against the emperor? What account
can you give of his successor? Give an account of Frederic V., and ob-
serve particularly whom he married, as it is through this princess that queen
Victoria and her immediate ancestors hold the throne of England ? What
princes are mentioned, belonging to the house of Austria in Germany and
Spain ? How did James I. treat his son-in-law ?
350
GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS.
Modern His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
Ferdinand
provokes
the protest-
ant princes,
who form a
league with
Sweden
and France.
162®.
(Partly on
account of
religion,
partly on
account of
balance of
power.)
Holland and
England aid
the protest-
ants.
1631.
LEIPSIC.
Gustavus
Adolphus
defeats
Tilly.
1632.
LUTZEJf.
The Swedes
victorious,
but their
king slain.
Sweden
ably go-
verned.
at the head of which was Christian IV., of Denmark, aspired
to establish a despotic power in Germany,— to reduce the
princes to the rank of nobles, and to revive the imperial juris-
diction in Italy. His first attempt upon the protestant princes
was made by an edict requiring them to restore the church lands
and benefices which they had possessed since the peace ofPassau.
The princes remonstrated, and urged that the edict was illegal.
Ferdinand persisted, and the protectants formed a secret alliance
with Gustavus Adolphus, of Sweden. This monarch had
already shown his valor in war, and his wisdom in peace. He
was a zealous protestant, and he deemed it policy to unite him-
self with those powers who sought to weaken the dreaded in-
fluence of the house of Austria ; and furthermore, the emperor
had incurred his displeasure, by assisting the Poles in their
wars against the Swedes. The alliance was extended to the
court of France, where the cardinal Richelieu was the prime
mover, and he sympathised with Gustavus in the desire of
curbing the Austrian power. Holland also came into the alli-
ance ; and Charles I., now king of England, furnished the allies
with 6,000 men.
6. Gustavus entered Pomerania, and made himself master of
many important places. At Leipsic, he obtained a complete
victory over the imperial forces, under the command of Tilly,
who was an able general- All the members of the Evangelical
Union now joined his standard ; and he possessed himself of
the whole country from the Elbe to the Rhine. Tilly having
been killed, the renowned Wallenstein succeeded him. To
him Gustavus offered battle at Lutzen. The contest lasted from
day-break till sunset, when the obstinate valor of the Swedes
at length triumphed over the superior numbers of the enemy ;
but Gustavus perished. When wounded on the field, and asked
by an enemy who he was, " I am," said he, " the king of
Sweden, and I seal with my blood the protestant religion, and
the liberties of Germany."
7. As Gustavus left but one child, Christina, a daughter of
six years of age, the government of Sweden was held by the
able statesman Oxenstiern, who was made regent. The war
was conducted with vigor, and officers formed in the school of
Gustavus sent into Germany. The imperial general, Wallen-
stein, being assassinated, the command was given to Ferdinand,
king of Hungary, eldest son of the emperor. The accession
5. What league did Ferdinand crush ? What did his ambition next aspire
to? What new league was formed against him ? What account is given
of Gustavus Adolphus ? What motives operated with him in forming the
league ? Look over your map, and point to the countries subject to the
different branches of the house of Austria, (the whole Spanish peninsula,
Naples and Sicily, Flanders, Germany, Hungary and Bohemia,) and now
point to the nations leagued against them. — 6. What battle was fought, and
with what result? Who succeeded Tilly in command? Where did Gus-
tavus give him battle, and with what result? — f. Who was heiress, and
who regent of Sweden ? What was the fate of Wallenstein ? Who suc-
ceeded him in command ?
GENERALS FORMED BY GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS. 351
of the dukes of Lorraine and Bavaria, with a reinforcement of Modern gfr-
Spanish troops, at this time, strengthened the imperial party, perfd hi.
The arnry of the confederates, under the command of general chap- *■
Horn, and the duke of Saxe-Weimar, encountered the forces
of the king of Hungary at ISTordlingen. One of the most
bloody battles recorded in history ensued. It ended in the
total defeat of the Swedes. The emperor now negotiated with
the Evangelical Union the treaty of Prague, by which he left
the protestants in possession of the church property, and per-
mitted the free exercise of their religion throughout the em- 1(535.
pire, with the exception of the kingdom of Bohemia, and the Treaty of
provinces of the house of Austria. Prague.
8. A new alliance was formed between Sweden and France, -«Q«
and the latter kingdom now openly participated in the war. In \iTt-
upper Germany, the elector of Saxony was defeated by the stock.
Swedish general, Bannier, in a battle fought at Wittstock. fe^Bannier
Ferdinand III., on the death of his father, succeeded to the im- victorious.
perial throne, and continued the war against Sweden, France, J^^Ja
and the protestants. The duke of Saxe-Weimar defeated the confede-'
imperial army near Brisac, and reduced this with many other SJxe-Wei-
towns. The Swedes were triumphant in Pomerania. Bannier mer victo-
crossed the Elbe, entered Saxony, obtained advantages over the J^Jun
imperialists in several slight engagements, and near Chemnitz, qhem-
gained a complete victory. He next invaded Bohemia, and at JfIT%,
Brandeiz fought the imperialists, under Hofskirk, and, again deiz.
victorious, he pursued the retreating army to the walls of Swedes vic-
Prague, and took the imperial general prisoner.
9. Bannier next formed a plan of attacking Ratisbon, during
the session of a diet, which the emperor had there convened.
Joined by the French army under Guelbriant, he crossed the
Danube on the ice, captured 1,500 of the enemy's horse, and (Arch-duke
seized the equipage and advance guard of the emperor, who JJ^beJSjpJ
himself narrowly escaped being made a prisoner. An unex- parent of
pected thaw saved the city, and compelled Bannier to recross Austna'
the river. A powerful imperial army now assembled under
general Piccolomini, and the archduke Leopold. Bannier
marched through Bohemia, followed by the imperial general,
but before any decisive action could take place, death deprived jpSSSir-
the confederates of the great Swedish commander. Torsten- buttel.
son, another general who had served under Gustavus Adolphus, ^th'hfc'
was sent from Sweden by Oxenstiern, with a strong reinforce- French
ment of troops, and a large sum of money. Before the arrival f/Ss thedim
of Torstenson, Guelbriant had led his forces to battle, and de- periaiists.
T. Who commanded the army of the allies ? What battle was fought,
and with what result? What arrangements were made by the treaty of
Prague ? — 8. What new alliance was formed ? Trace through this para-
graph the victories of the Swedes under their great general Bannier. Who
succeeded Ferdinand II. in the empire ? What victory did the duke of
Saxe-Weimar gnin over his troops? — 9. What bold plan was formed by
Bannier ? Whose assistance had he in its execution ? How far did it suc-
ceed ? What change in the Swedish commanders now took place ? What
had the French general Guelbriant done before the arrival of Torstenson ?
352
THE THIRTY YEARS' WAR CONTINUES.
Modern His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. I.
Hostilities
between
Sweden and
Denmark.
1645.
THABOR.
Torstenson
and the
Swedes de-
feat the im-
perialists.
MJIRIEJV-
DAL.
The imperi-
alists defeat
Turenne
and the
French.
1646.
NORD-
LIJVGEN.
Turenne t
and Conde
victorious.
1647.
ZUMMER-
HJ1USEM".
The allies
defeat the
imperialists
feated the imperialists near Wolfenbuttel. After his arrival, the
French and Swedes separated. Guelbriant entered Westphalia,
and Torstenson, Bohemia.
10. In the ensuing campaign, Guelbriant defeated the impe-
rial general, and made himself master of almost the whole elec-
torate of Cologne. Torstenson obtained two victories over the
imperialists, after which he reduced Leipzic. The court of
Vienna, in dismay, commenced negotiations, which were, how-
ever, retarded by the death of Louis XIII., and of cardinal
Richelieu. During these conferences, Torstenson invaded Hol-
stein ; the king of Denmark having exhibited evidence of hos-
tility towards Sweden. Christian IV., the Danish king, now
implored the aid of the emperor, who dispatched one of his
generals to withstand the army of Torstenson. The mediation
of France soon produced an accommodation between these
northern powers, and enabled Sweden to turn all her energies
against the empire.
11. France and Sweden also entered into a treaty with
George Racoczi, the vaivode of Transylvania, who, by invad-
ing Hungary, divided the forces of the empire. Torstenson in-
vaded Bohemia, and after an unsuccessful attempt at surprising
Prague, drew the imperialists into an engagement near Thabor,
where he defeated them with great slaughter. Many towns
now submitted to the conquerors, who became masters of the
Danube on the side of Moravia. In the meantime, the impe-
rialists, under the elector of Bavaria, met the French, now
under the command of the marshal Turenne, and defeated
them on the plains of Mariendal.
12. Turenne, however, made a successful retreat, crossed the
Maine in safety, and soon after received a reinforcement of
8,000 men, under the duke d'Enghien, afterwards the great
Conde.. At Nordlingen he encountered the imperialists, and
was now victorious. The success of Turenne spread terror
through the provinces, and induced the electors of Saxony and
Bavaria, and the German princes, to renounce the alliance with
the emperor, and make a truce with France. The following
year the elector of Bavaria, by the armistice of Ulm, induced
Wrangel, the Swedish general who had succeeded Torsten-
son, to abandon Bohemia. The treaty was violated, and the next
spring, Wrangel, joined by Turenne, fought the imperialists and
defeated them at Zummerhausen. Konigsmark, another
Swedish general, surprised the new city of Prague, and made
himself its master.
13. The emperor now sued earnestly for peace, and the ne-
lO. What defeats did the imperialists next experience ? What retarded
negotiations with France? What northern powers became embroiled?
What nation mediated between them? — 11. What ally did France and
Sweden gain from the east? What further success had the allies? Who
was commander of the French ? What battle now occurred, and with what
result? — 12. How and where did Turenne retrieve his loss? What are
the principal events noticed in 1647 ?
CLOSE OF THE THIRTY YEARS5 WAR. $53
gotiations resulted in the Treaty of Westphalia, signed October ««*><*«•» rs».
24, 1648. This highly important treaty constitutes an approach perpd hi.
to confederation among the contracting powers ; — it has served chap. i.
as a basis for the future treaties, — most of the succeeding wars ^-^v^w/
having had reference to the balance of power. Its conditions
showed that the pride of the house of Austria was humbled.
To France were granted Alsatia, Brisac, and the sovereignty of
Mete, Tonl, and Verdun ;— to Sweden, 5000,000 crowns, 164S.
with Upper Pomerania, the Isle of Rugen, and a part of Lower Treaty of
Pomerania, Wismar, Bremar, and Verden, to be held as fiefs of Westplia-
the empire. The upper palatinate, with the electoral dignity, Ua,
was continued to the duke of Bavaria, while the lower . palati-
nate ivas restored to Charles Louis, son of the deposed elector;
an eighth electorate being established on his account. Switzer-
land and Holland were declared to be free and sovereign states,
and " the three religions, Catholic, Lutheran, and Calvinistic,n
were each admitted to the free enjoyment of their several tenets.
Thus ended the thirty years' war, which, though destructive,
shows improvement in the state of the world; as it was not so
much a war of conquest, as of principle ; — protestantism, as in
Sweden, determining to defend itself against ecclesiastical ty-
ranny ; and nationality, as in France, fearing the grasp of the
giant strength of the House of Austria. The ends of the contest
were accomplished. The thirty years' war broke the power
of the pope, and humbled the House of Austria.
14. SPAIN. — Philip III. was a prince of little ambition, and
governed by his ministers and the priests. After the peace
which he concluded at the Hague, with the revolted provinces 1611. 1
of the Netherlands, he turned his attention to the extirpation of JJ?*jj
heresy in Spain. The Moriscoes, descendants of the ancient eted.
Moors, were ordered to leave the realm within thirty days,
on penalty of death. They resisted the cruel decree, and
vainly attempted to establish an independent kingdom. They
were, however, banished ; and thus Spain, deprived of nearly a
million of industrious inhabitants, suffered a diminution of na-
tional strength, greater than any foreign enemy had ever caused.
The succeeding monarch, Philip IV., became more closely p^m?'
united with the German branch of the house of Austria. Philip iv.
and his ambitious minister, Olivarez, at the expiration of the
truce, renewed the attempt to bring the Netherlands into sub-
jection to the crown. But Spain, now on the decline, was at
last obliged to acknowledge in full the independence of the
13. What important treaty was made? To what does this treaty con-
stitute an approach? For what has it served as a basis ? To what have
most succeeding European wars had reference ? What did France obtain ?
What Sweden? What was done in regard to the palatinate respecting
which the thirty years' war began? What smaller countries had their inde-
pendence guarantied ? What arrangement was made with regard to reli-
gion? What remarks are made respecting the thirty years' war? — 14.
What was the character of Philip III. of Spain ? What cruel expulsion
marks his reign ? Relate some of the events of the reign of Philip IV,
45
354 THE HOUSE OF BRAGANZA.
Modern His. United Provinces. In Italy, her affairs were going to ruin, and
peri'D in. sne nad a war with France upon her hands.
chap. ii. 15. PORTUGAL, during this inefficient reign, struck for her
s**f~%*^>*' independence, and placed the duke of Beaganza, whose title
*3 [164© was superior to that of the king of Spain, upon the throne,
^ I J°}!n under the name of John IV. All the Portuguese settlements in
§ i Asia, Africa, and the islands, expelled their Spanish governors,
"5 I j^4§ and Brazil was recovered. Catalonia also revolted and placed
sq I ' itself under the direction of France ; but after some years of war
that province was reduced by the Spaniards to submission.
CHAPTER II.
France.
m
1. On the death of Henry IV., his son, Louis XIII., being
only nine years old, his mother, Mary de Medici, was made re-
iouJ!' gent5 Dy tnose wno expected through her to govern France.
xiii. She was unfit to hold the reins of government, and especially
Mary^de at a time when they required a firm and vigorous hand. The
Medici, powerful arm of Henry IV. had scarcely restrained the nobles,
who aimed at independence, and always furnished leaders to
the malecontents of the kingdom. Mary soon departed from the
line of policy pursued by her husband ; and dismissing Sully,
trusted the management of affairs to her Italian favorites, Leo-
161/t N0RA Galigai, and her husband, Concini. Upon these, and
Last ' other favorites, she lavished the wealth which Sully by his pru-
* mefthng dence nac* accumulated. The catholic party under their aus-
§ states pices, reassumed the ascendant. A union with Spain was the
general. consequence, by which Louis married Anne, daughter of Philip
The II. But misrule had brought confusion and distress: The
marries powerful nobles meditated revolt. A meeting of the states'*
Anne of general was called, memorable as the last of these national as~
Austria. semj)nes previous to the French revolution, but this measure
was productive of no effect in removing the grievances of the
kingdom.
(t called 2. The young king, under the influence of De Luynes, his
alSshaiar~ favorite, was now stirred up to resentment against the Italian
d'Ancre.) favorites of his mother. Concinif was arrested when proceeding
15. What was now done in Portugal ? How was it with the foreign pos-
sessions of that kingdom ? What was done by the inhabitants of Catalonia?
Chap. II.— 1. Who administered the government of France after the
death of Henry IV. ? Was it well administered ? Who were the queen's
favorites? How did she treat her husband's friend and wise counsellor?
What is here said of the catholic party and their doings? What of the
meeting of the states' general ?— ». What was done by Louis under the in-
fluence of De Luynes?
RICHELIEU AGGRANDIZES FRANCE. 355
to the council chamber at the Louvre, and on pretence of resist- •Modern His-
ance, shot. Leonora was tried for sorcery; and when asked by peri'D hi.
her accusers, by what process of the black art she acquired such CKAP- «■
influence over her mistress, she boldly replied, " Simply by the <*~*^^*~/
power which a strong mind has over a weak one.'5 But she ^1%
was burned as a sorceress, and the queen regent exiled to Blois; Mary's
while De Luynes continued to control Louis. Richelieu, Italian
bishop of Lu9on, and afterwards cardinal, effected an accom- it.es."
modation between her and her son. The bold, aspiring genius
of this priest made her the tool of his intriguing policy j and
with her aid he raised a powerful opposition to Louis, and his
worthless favorite.
3. The Huguenots, displeased at an attempt of the king to es- -„„-
tablish the catholic religion, called an assembly at Rochelle, in- civil '
tending, as is supposed, to establish a republic. The command war
of the royal army was given by De Luynes to Lesdiguieres, the Hu
a Huguenot who had embraced the Romish faith. The northern
provinces which had followed the doctrines of the reformation,
were reduced ; but at the siege of Montauban, the royalists were jtjlu-
defeated with the loss of a great part of their army. De Luynes baj^t.
gue-
nots.
JtfOJV-
died of chagrin ; and the following year a treaty was concluded
su
fid.
between the monarch and his protestant subjects, which placed su
their affairs as they were before this war,
4. On the death of De Luynes, Mary procured, though not Pr0.
without difficulty, a seat in the king's council for Richelieu, jects of
Thenceforward the genius of the cardinal obtained an entire Jen!"
ascendancy over both monarch and ministers, and he became in ^ho
plans
fact, master not only of France, but in a measure, as we have the
seen, director of the destinies of Europe. The aim of his policy dfurnr~a_
was to elevate the monarchy of France ; and to this end, he ther
wished first to destroy the power of the Huguenots, whom he gooVof
disliked as heretics, and whose assemblies he regarded as the France,
prolific source of sedition and insurrection ; second, to humble
the high nobility ; and third, to check the grasping power of
the house of Austria.
5. He concluded an alliance with England, by the marriage
of Henrietta, youngest daughter of Henry IV., to Charles, Henri-
the prince of Wales. He shortly after infringed the treaty last w*J£a£f
concluded with the Huguenots, and having provoked them to Charles
rebel, while unprepared for war, defeated their plans ; and at last J^ero?
made an accommodation with them, favorable to the crown. Charles
To humble the House of Austria, he formed first a secret alliance
2. Give some account of the trial of Leonora ? What was done with the
queen-regent ? Through what remarkable person did she regain some de-
gree of influence ? In what condition did the cardinal place the king and his
favorite ? — 3. What was now done by the Huguenots? What is it supposed
they intended ? What measures were taken to oppose them, and with what
success ? — 4:. To whom did Richelieu owe his election to a seat in the king's
council ? What did he soon become ? What was the aim of his policy ?
What three impediments did he wish to destroy as being in the way of the
aggrandizement of the French crown ? — 5. What marriage was negotiated?
How did Richelieu treat the Huguenots ?
356
ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND UNITED.
Modern His-
PERI'D III.
CHAP. II.
1643.
Death of
Louis XIII.
S
3"
s
O
1603.
James I.
(His tu-
tor was
the cele-
brated
George
Bucha-
nan.)
The Pu-
ritans
dissatis-
fied,
made
more so
by the
famous
confer-
ence at
Hamp-
ton-
court.
with Gustavus Adolphus, and afterwards, at the death of that
monarch, as has been stated, he openly joined the Swedes. Had
his abilities been more under the direction of that benevolence
which loves all mankind ; or even of that justice which refuses
to injure one class to benefit another, France would have had
more cause to bless his memory. As it was, his talents were
employed to crush the rights of the people. He laid the foun-
dation of the grandeur and absolute dominion of Louis XIV.;
and, in the reaction, that of the bloody French revolution.
6. ENGLAND, SCOTLAND AND IRELAND.— The his-
tory of England during this period, is memorable for that strug-
gle between the parliament and the monarch, which, beginning
in the reign of James I., became more violent in that of his suc-
cessor ; and at length ended in limiting the royal prerogative,
and establishing the rights and liberties of the people. On the
death of Elizabeth, the crown of England passed quietly from
the house of Tudor, in which it had remained since Henry VII.,
to that of Stuart. Her successor, James I.* of England, and
VI. of Scotland, son of the unfortunate Mary, was, as our his-
tory has shown, great grandson of Margaret, the eldest daughter
of that monarch. The accession of James was hailed by all
classes of the English with enthusiasm. By profession a pro-
testant, and accustomed to the rigid and austere notions of the
Scottish church, he was peculiarly acceptable to his protestant
subjects, while to the catholics, he was endeared by the remem-
brance of his mother's claims and injuries. The pride of the
Scots too, was gratified in giving a monarch to their haughty
neighbors, who had for ages been seeking their subjugation.
7. On the arrival of James in England, his manners, — conceited,
careless, good-natured and pedantic, soon began to be unfavor-
ably contrasted with the royal dignity and courteousness of
those of Elizabeth. Some disaffection was also caused by his
profuse liberality to his Scottish courtiers, though he left the
great offices of state in the hands of Elizabeth's ministers. Sir
Robert Cecil, the second son of Cecil, lord Burleigh, was his
prime minister ; a more shrewdly cunning, but less honest man
than his father, and therefore a less sound politician. The
Puritans, an order of protestants who regarded the ceremonies
and discipline retained in the English church as an approach to
popery, had not yet openly separated from it, expecting, that on
the accession of James, these usages would be abolished ; and
* The reign of James I. commenced seven years before the death of Henry
IV. It was judged best in this, as in some other cases, to admit of some
irregularities, rather than to break the thread of the history at an inconve-
nient place ?
5. What measures did he take to humble the house of Austria ? What
remarks are made on Richelieu's services to his country ? — 6. For what is
this period of English history memorable ? What change of dynasties now
occurred? Who was Elizabeth's successor ? How was his accession re-
ceived by different classes? — 7. What comparison was made between his
manners and those of Elizabeth ? What disaffection was there respecting
his Scottish courtiers ? What sect of protestauts is here mentioned ?
THE GUNPOWDER PLOT. 357
they petitioned the king accordingly. James had in his early Modem His.
youth imbibed their notions ; yet, in his mature years, he ~
feared the republican tendency of their principles. His maxim
was, " no bishop, no king." He called a conference at Hamp-
ton-court, for the purpose of hearing the arguments on both
sides, and at its close he declared, that " he would have one
doctrine, one discipline, one religion in substance and ceremony;" ._..
and he therefore enjoined the puritans to conform to the estab- sionofthe
lished worship. He shortly after made arrangements on a large completed
scale for the accurate translation of the Scriptures ; to which we *n leu.)
are indebted for our excellent version.
8. The memorable " Gunpowder Plot," was concocted by
William Catesby; and his chief accomplices were Sir Eve- jxjo5.
rard Digby, and William Tresham; — zealous catholics — The Gun-
men of character, who believed that the act they meditated would pop^oter
be acceptable to God. The purpose of the plot was to destroy the
king and parliament. One of the conspirators hired a coal eel- (The Jesuits
lar, under the building where the house of lords met, and there are. charged
deposited thirty-six barrels of gunpowder, which was to be ex- at the bot?
ploded on the first day of the meeting of parliament, when the Jjj™ J^thH
king, queen, and prince of Wales| would be in the house. The
secret, which had been in the keeping of at least twenty persons
for more than a year, was discovered by means of a letter writ-
ten to dissuade lord Monteagle, a catholic nobleman, from Seat Jon of"
going to the house on that day. Monteagle communicated the Jai"es, an
letter to the king, who, on the evening previous to the meeting, and highly
caused search to be made, when the whole plot was developed. princfeeaied
Guy Fawkes, an officer in the Spanish service, was found in 1612,jE. 19.)
the cellar with a match in his pocket. The other conspirators
were also discovered, and all consigned to punishment. Tor-
ture was used to extract confessions.
9. The most politic and commendable measure of James I.,
was the progress which he made towards the settlement and James pro-
civilization of Ireland. He abolished certain customs which ™,ot.es l.he
supplied the place of laws, and which had kept that island in a of Ireland,
state of barbarism and disorder. Among others, was that called
the Eric, wherein a price was set upon every man, by the pay-
ment of which, his murderer would escape unpunished. The
English laws were substituted, and regular courts of judicature
established ; while, for making such new laws as might be ne-
cessary, an Irish house of commons was regularly constituted.
Ulster was colonized by Scotch and English protestants. James
recommended a union of the English and Scottish parliaments,
and took the title of tf King of Great Britain." He encouraged
the colonization of America.
7. What measure did he take to settle the minds of his people on reli-
gious subjects ? What was the king's language and decision? — 8. Who
were the principal persons concerned in the gunpowder-plot? What was
its design ? How was it discovered ? What circumstance respecting their
punishment marks a barbarous age ? — 9. What may be said of James' con-
duct in regard to Ireland ? What other good measures did he encourage ?
358 PARLIAMENT ASSERTS ITS RIGHTS.
10. The attempts of James to introduce the customs, rites,
peri'D in. and discipline of the church of England into Scotland, were met
chap. ii. with decided opposition, — produced popular tumults, and drew
upon him the enmity of that kingdom. In his latter years, too,
the parliaments of England assumed a determined tone in regard
to the measures of the court. The house of commons re-
monstrated against the intended marriage of the prince of Wales
with a catholic princess of Spain. They besought the king to
unite with Sweden in war against the house of Austria for the
their'neigh- recovery of the palatine for Frederic, his protestant son-in-
^iousVat-" ^aw- James resented this interference of the commons, and
ters.) commanded them not to presume to meddle with any thing that
Parliament regarded his government. But they boldly presented still
begins to as- another remonstrance, claiming, that they were entitled to inter-
rights. (Pym pose in all matters of government, and, that freedom of speech
and others m public debate, was their ancient and undoubted right. The
in parlia- r . 7 . . o
ment take a king replied that their pretensions were what their predecessors
S? defenc^of nac* never, during the weakest reigns, presumed to urge ; and
the rights of insinuated, that their privileges were derived from the royal
par lament.) fayor . jjut ^y remame(J firm and resolute.
11. Negotiations for a marriage between Charles, now
Bucking- prince of Wales, and the infanta of Spain, had been commenced,
ham- but were broken off through the intrigues of the unworthy fa-
(The temper vorite both of James and his son, the duke of Buckingham,
of the com- ancj an unf0rtunate war with Spain ensued. An alliance with
mons to- . r „ . .
wards the France and the Low Countries, for restraining the power of
waVto°per- Austria, which met the entire approbation of parliament, was
secute, hut formed. A marriage was also concluded between the prince
strSned6" of Wales, and Henrietta, sister of Louis XIII. As the
them. princess was a catholic, this match, although more acceptable
James sane- -T. . • • , . . , \ 1 °, , , r .
tioned the than the Spanish, was by no means agreeable to the nation.
iw^menfor James died in the fifty-ninth year of his age. His unwarlike
heresy.) disposition better suited the interest, than the inclination of his
subjects ; and England, under his government, was prosperous,
(After the death of Cecil, who was made earl of Salisbury, James fell
under the dominion of unworthy favorites. The first who ruled him was
Thomas Carr, earl of Somerset ; the second was George Villiers, whom he
created duke of Buckingham, and made him his chief counsellor, for the
wise reasons that he was handsome and of a pleasing address. He had learned
to deal with James so as to carry his point; and he behaved like a petted
and spoiled child — getting his way somelimes by whining and coaxing, and
sometimes by bullying and threatening the indulgent and timid king. Lord
Clarendon gives a lively picture of the manner in which he wrought upon
James to sanction the visit of himself and the prince of Wales to the infanta
of Spain, to whom Charles was betrothed. During that visit, Buckingham
disgraced the prince by his pranks. The Spanish minister said, the infanta
must curb the favorite after she was married. Buckingham, displeased,
opposed the match, broke it off, and then told the parliament lying stories,
laying the blame upon the Spaniards.)
lO. What tyrannical attempts of the king in regard to church matters met
opposition? What was the temper of the parliament ?— II. What nego-
tiations of marriage were broken off, and by whom? What connexions
were formed with France ? What is remarked of the unwarlike disposition
of James ?
CHARLES I. CONTENDS WITH PARLIAMENT. 359
increasing in wealth and national power. The great BACONt Mode™ His.
honored this reign by his philosophical researches, but unhap- peri'd hi
pily disgraced it by corruptly receiving bribes, while filling the chap. ii.
high judicial office of lord chancellor. Hervey discovered the v-^y->^
circulation of the blood, which, opposed by his cotemporaries, Bacon. Lord
made him poor while he lived, but gained him posthumous fame. ^JJJjJJT
12. Charles I., who was twenty -five years of age when he called Lord
succeeded to the throne, had spent much of his youth with the B\S!)
dissolute young Buckingham; and he was ignorant of the state Charles"
of the nation. His measures were of course ill calculated to (His
heal divisions, of whose existence he was little aware. His first a^|„t.
act was to summon a parliament, to obtain the means of paying ed to
the debts contracted by the crown, during the preceding reign, pJJ'2,
and to enable him to prosecute the Austrian war. The parlia- the com-
ment granted a small sum, inadequate to the wants of the nation. gSted
Their object was, by withholding supplies, to obtain from the ^5,000.)
monarch some new security for their liberties. The contest
between the prerogative of the king, and the rights of the com-
mons, now fairly commenced. Charles, inheriting from his j &
father lofty ideas of the royal prerogative, and regarding this Con.. §
attempt to circumscribe his authority, as little less than a con- tests be- 1 *
spiracy against his throne, dissolved the ■parliament. To supply the king
his necessities, he resorted to illegal methods of taxation, which JJ^SJ;
had been practised by the Tudors.
13. Having, by strenuous efforts, succeeded in fitting out a
fleet, the command was given to lord Wimbledon, a favorite of
the duke of Buckingham. This officer sailed to Spain, mis- ^Me
managed matters, and returned. Charles was obliged to sum- plague
1 t i t mi rages in
mon another parliament to obtain supplies. 1 he commons Lon-
granted the money, and at the same time, requested the king to don) |
remove the duke of Buckingham from his counsels. Charles
rejected the petition, and again dissolved the parliament. <
14. A war with France, undertaken at the instigation of
Buckingham, was now added to the alarming list of evils.
Nothing was left to Charles, hopeless as that measure seemed,
but again to summon a parliament. This body now resolved
to provide some security for their rights and their liber-
ties, so often violated. They determined to furnish a fresh
supply to the king ; but before passing the vote, they appointed Petition of
a committee, who prepared a bill, declaring the illegality of the ChaJf^
measures of the court, and securing their liberties from future with dupn
infringement. This bill, called a "Petition of Rights," Clty
passed both houses of parliament, and required only the royal
11. What is said of Lord Bacon? Of Hervey?— 12. What was the
position of Charles I. on coming to the throne ? What his first act ? What
did parliament, and what was their object ? What was the contest which
had now began ? How did the king view the question of royal prerogative ?
What did he in regard to the parliament and his needed supplies ? — 13.
What was done in relation to the Spanish war ? What was Charles obliged
again to do to raise money ? What was the result of the parliament's meet-
ing ? — l'l. What new war had Charles the folly to undertake ? What did
the parliament which the king now called, and what did they obtain?
acts
360 JOHN HAMPDEN.
Modern His, assent to becom : a law. Charles gave it his sanction in the
peri'd in. usual form, but with such evident tokens of unwillingness, as
chap. a. made his sincerity distrusted. The supply which had been
"^■"v^&w voted to the king, was eventually granted. Parliament was
proceeding still farther to reform abuses, when it was prorogued
by the king.
August 23, 15, Shortly after, Buckingham, while preparing with a fleet
Bucking'- to £° to Rochelle in aid of the French protestants, was as-
ham assas- sassinated by the deliberate stroke of Felton, a religious en-
smated. thusiast. The expedition to Rochelle failed; and while Charles
had expended in preparations for its success, the subsidies
granted by parliament, its failure served only to inflame the dis-
content of his subjects.
1629. 16. The next parliament renewed a claim to the right of
Contests be- regulating the mode of taxation: they also complained of
tween the . . ...
king and grievances in matters of religion. Charles, irritated at the conti-
paonUn?u5nt nued attempts to limit his prerogative, again determined to dis-
Denzii,(a'f- solve the parliament, but when the speaker of the house of
LordHoHes ) commons was about to rise in order to signify the king's inten-
was one of tion, he was forcibly held in the chair, until a remonstrance was
wh^nekt" drawn up and passed. The enraged monarch, committed to
the speaker prison and fined the leaders of the parliamentary party, who,
of the nine by this prosecution, only acquired an increase of popularity.
commuted Charles now resolved to govern by his prerogative, and for
he is first twelve years there was no parliament. Being unprovided with
named.) means for continuing the continental war, he made peace with
France and Spain. He extorted money-gifts from his sub-
jects, under the name of loans and " benevolences," and claimed
a legal right to levy taxes for the support of a navy, calling
these taxes ship-money. John Hampden refused to pay his
assessment, of twenty shillings. He was a man of commanding
abilities, of popular manners, unblemished honor and patriotism ;
johnHamp- an(^ ne tnus boldly and openly set the example of braving the
den loses power of the crown, in behalf of the legal rights of the people.
1638. Though the court of exchequer decided against him, giving
many reasons for their decision, yet the people, as Hampden
had foreseen, perceived the weakness of the royal pretensions,
when tried in the balance of justice ; and became more and more
(Puritans determined not to submit to such unreasonable exactions,
persecuted, j^. The mutual hostility of the religious parties became
loses his more inveterate. The puritans, now a numerous body, justly
* on,' tether" complained of the rigorous measures taken by the episcopacy,
of tfiearch- to enforce conformity with the rules of the established church;
tHated and" while the church, under the control of the bigoted archbishop
ftryeanfy ^aiid, increased their causes of complaint, by introducing
15. Give an account of the death of Buckingham ? — 16. What was done
in the next parliament ? How did Charles determine to govern ? How long
a time intervened without a parliament ? What means did he use to get
money ? Who resisted his will? — IT. What was the state of the country
in regard to religious parties ?
1638.
THE LOXG PARLIAMENT. 36]
new and more offensive ceremonies, and showing a manifest Mode™ Bis.
tendency towards the catholic forms and faith.
18. Charles made a journey into Scotland, where his cause
had been favored, for the purpose of bringing the Scots to con-
form to the customs of the English church. This united that
nation to oppose him. An outcry was raised against popery,
and both the clergy and people entered into a bond of union,
pledging themselves to resist all religious innovations, and to
support each other against all opposition. This was termed The Scot-
"The Solemn League and Covenant." The covenanters pre- tish Cove-
pared to maintain their rights by military force. Charles, on nant.
his part, raised an army to punish their refractory zeal. Afraid
to hazard a battle, and sensible of the disinclination of his Eng-
lish troops to the war, he endeavored to negotiate ; but as he
would not concede all that the Scots required, the war was re-
newed. The advantage was now all on the side of the cove-
nanters. During the pacification, Charles had disbanded his
army, and though he again collected a body of troops, he had
no means of paying them.
19. In this dilemma, he was obliged to resort to the humilia- 1640.
ting expedient of again calling a parliament. He obtained no Parliament
aid, and dissolved it. — The army of the covenanters advanced
into England. At Newcastle-upon-Tyne, they encountered a c^i^'E_
detachment of the royal forces under lord Conway, and de- upojy-
feaied them. In their march into England, the Scots maintained covenS-
the most exact discipline, paid for their provisions, and made ters defeat
protestations of loyalty to the king ; wishing only to obtain ac- aHstJ."
cess to the royal person, and the redress of their grievances; and
Charles was again obliged to make concessions, to obtain a ces-
sation of hostilities.
20. Another assembly was now convened, which obtained the
name of the Long Parliament, and proved the most remarkable iq±q
of all the parliaments of England. Its chief leaders were John Nov. 3."
Pym, John Hampden, and Denzil Holles. The younger JJaam'S
Vane, now just returned from New England, where he had been
made governor of Massachusetts, was, from his character and
family connexions, very influential. A week after this parlia- Nov, 1J#
ment convened, Pym carried up to the house of lords an im- Pym carries
- - ' • i • m ttt i UP Straf-
peachment ol high-treason against Ihomas Wentworth, earl ford's im-
of Strafford, who was committed to the tower. Wentworth had, peachmem.
at die beginning of this contest, occupied the same ground in
the patriot party, as Pym and Hampden ; but the king bought
his services, and repaid him with riches and an earldom ; he
having become the adviser of Charles in his most illegal stretches
of power. It was by his counsel that Charles had first taken up
18. What was done in Scotland ? What was the league called ? What
was the kins' s position in Scotland after this? — 19. What was he again
obliged to d~o ? What military operations occurred ?—20. What was the
parliament called which now convened, — and what did it prove to be ? Who
were its principal leaders ? What was done by Pym ? Give some account
of Wentworth.
46
362
REFORM BECOMES USURPATION.
Modern His.
1641.
May 12.
Strafford be-
headed on
Tower-hill.
M. 49.
The com-
mons of the
Long-parlia-
ment exer-
cise ofthem-
selves the
functions of
sovereignty.
Origin of the
term Round-
head
1642-
The king
vainly at-
tempts to
take Pym,
Hampden,
Holies, Sir
Arthur
Haslerig and
Stroud.
arms. He had ruled in Ireland, repressing disorders, but giving
offence by his tyranny. JNTow,the representatives of the king-
dom joined to impeach him with the design of altering the
constitution from a limited to an absolute monarchy. He ap-
peared with great dignity before the house of commons, where
he made a most able defence ; but the extensive mischiefs trace-
able to his ill advice and illegal rule, were by his judges con-
sidered as proving his offence, and worthy of death, Strafford
had hopes from Charles, to whom he had affectionately written
to do as he judged best for himself. The king took him at his
word, and signed Strafford's death warrant; not believing him to
have been guilty, and contrary to his promise. When Strafford
knew this, he exclaimed, "put not your trust in princes!" and
resigned himself to his fate.
21. In the meantime, other high-handed measures of reform
were going on. Denzil Holies impeached archbishop Laud,
who was sent to the tower; as was Sir Robert Berkeley, the judge
who gave the decision against Hampden in the case of the ship-
money. The prison doors were opened to the incarcerated pu-
ritans ; and the tribunal of the " Star Chamber," by which the
last kings, with a show of law, had oppressed the people, was
abolished. By a still bolder measure the commons attacked
the other branch of the legislative body, and declared that
bishops should not sit in the house of lords ; and by another act,
they, in effect, made their own sitting perpetual. At this time
a mysterious rebellion broke out in Ireland, in which more than
10,000 protestants were massacred by the catholics. The king
among others, was suspected as having been one of its plotters.
Parliament granted money to suppress it; but not in such a way
that it went directly into the king's hands. But now that pre-
cedent, and law, and order were set aside, every thing was tur-
moil and confusion. Insolent bands of apprentices patroled the
streets of London, who, wearing their hair cut round, captain
Hyde drew his sword, and said he would "crop the ears of the
round-headed dogs," and from hence the parliamentary party
were called " the Roundheads."
22. Charles now meditated a bold stroke to restore his au-
thority, but it proved its final subversion. He caused Jive of
the members of Parliament to be impeached for treason, and
despatched a sergeant-at-arms to the house to demand them;
he was sent back without any positive answer. The king un-
wisely proceeded in person, with armed attendants, to the house ;
but the five members were gone, and as the king withdrew, the
cry which greeted him as he retired, was not " God save the
king ;" but " privilege ! — privilege of parliament !" Tumults suc-
20. Of what crime was he impeached? Relate the course of his trial
and execution. — 21. What other bold measures were these reforming poli-
ticians next engaged in ? What massacre occurred in Ireland ? What was
the state of things now that law and order were set aside? What is the
origin of the name Round-Heads ? — 22. Relate the event which proved the
final subversion of the king's authority.
CHARLES I. OVERPOWERED.
363
ceeded, and the royal family were obliged to flee from London.
Both parties now raised troops, and prepared to decide the con-
test by the appeal to arms. Charles raised his standard at
Nottingham. On his side were most of the nobility, and the
highest rank of the gentry, with their dependents ; but he was
destitute of arms, ammunition, and money. On the side of the
parliament, were not only the main body of the military force
of London, but most of the great corporations, with the seamen.
A battle, not decisive, was fought at Edgehill, in which Charles
commanded in person, aided by his nephew, prince Rupert ;
while his opponents were headed by the earl of essex. At
Lansdown, a battle was fought without any decisive result. At
Stratton and Roundway Down, the royalists were victorious.
23. In a skirmish on Chalsgrave-field, the patriot Hampden
was slain. The royalists made themselves masters of Bristol,
and laid siege to Gloucester. The parliament commanded
their army under Essex to march to the relief of Gloucester.
The king was compelled to raise the siege. The armies fought
at Newbury. Neither side could claim the victory, but both
sustained great loss.
24. The Scots now united with the parliament., while the
Irish dispatched succours to the king. At Marston Moor, a
bloody battle was fought, and lost by the royalists. Fifty
thousand troops were engaged — a larger force than was em-
ployed at any other period during this war. The parliamentary
commanders were Sir Thomas Fairfax, and Oliver Crom-
well. The royalists were led by the Marquis of New
Castle, and prince Rupert. At Naseby was fought his last
and fatal battle, in which Charles commanded in person, and
displayed " the conduct of a prudent general, and the valor of
a stout soldier." After the loss of this battle, he retreated to
Wales ; but finding himself unable to retrieve his fortunes, he
resolved to throw himself on the generosity of the Scots. He
arrived at their camp at Newark, and was at first received with
marks of respect; but he was detained a prisoner, and at length
delivered to the English, for the consideration of 400,000
pounds. He was conducted to Holdenby,* where he was de-
tained a prisoner by the parliament, until a change of events
took him out of their hands.
25. Between the opponents of the monarch there now existed
conflicting interests, and hostile feelings. Another religious
* Clarendon relates in a touching manner the great satisfaction which the
king felt that his children were permitted to come and spend a day with him.
These were his younger children. His oldest son was with his mother in
France — learning of her doubtless some of those lessons in dissoluteness
and double-dealing, which he afterwards practised.
22. What followed Charles' unfortunate visit to the house of commons?
Where did Charles erect his standard, and who were on his side? How
was it with the other party ? Give some account of the battle of Edgehill.
What other battles were fought in 1642 ?— 23. What in 1643 ? In which
of these was Hampden killed ? — 24:. Give some account of the battle of
Marston Moor. Of Naseby.
Modern His.
1644.
MARSTON
MOOR.
The royal-
ists defeat-
1645.
NASEBY.
Charles
commands,
and is de-
feated.
1647.
Charles a
prisoner.
(The Scotch
gave up the
king for
400,000
pounds
paid by par-
liament.)
364
CHARLES I. EXECUTED.
Modern His.
PERI'B III.
CHAP. II.
164?.
Cornet
Joyce seizes
the king.
(By the Old
Style, or Ju-
lian calen-
dar, the year
began the
25th of
March ; by
the New
Style, or
Gregorian,
the year be-
gins the 1st
of January.)
January 30,
1648,
Old Style, or
January 30,
11149,
New Stylo,
Trial and
execution of
Charles I.
Spanish.
1565.
St. Augus-
tine found-
ed.
sect had arisen, who maintained among other opinions, thatt
right of freedom for all, in matters of religion, which at I
this day is so extensively acknowledged. These were the inde--
pendents, at the head of whom was Oliver Cromwell. They
were opposed, not only to the king and prelacy, but also to the?
presbytery. This party professed the desire of establishing a i
republican form of government. Cromwell, by his real, orr
pretended zeal for religion and liberty, had gained the entire »
confidence of the army. He sought to obtain possessions
of the king's person, and privately dispatched a party of five \
hundred horse, under cornet Joyce,* who seized him at H olden- •
by, and conducted him to the army. Cromwell now marched I
at the head of the army to London, where he gave laws to the
parliament, — which had become extremely unpopular with the
nation. At the same time he paid great court to Charles, whom i
the hostilities of these two parties seemed again to bring into i
some consequence. Even at this time the king rejected over- •
tures for a reconciliation, refusing to relinquish his high preten- ■
sions, and allow the people that share in the government which i
they claimed. Cromwell and his adherents established him at I
Hampton court, where he lived for some time with the appear-
ance of freedom.
26. The situation of the king, however, soon became un-
pleasant. The visits of his friends were denied him, and angry
menaces were thrown out against him by the people. Charles
at length made his escape from the palace, and remained awhile
concealed at Litchfield ; but was soon compelled to place him-
self in the keeping of Hammond, governor of the Isle of
Wight. He was here detained a close prisoner, until at length
his opponents, fearing for their own safety in case of the revi-
val of his party, brought him to a public trial for treason, on
the ground of levying war against the parliament; illegally con-
demned,— and unjustly executed him on the scaffold.
27. European Colonies on the coast of North America. —
James Cartier, as early as 1534, discovered the bay and river
of St. Lawrence ; and in 1541 he built a fort near the site of
Quebec. In 1565 St. Augustine was founded by Pedro Me-
lendez, a Spanish bigot, who cruelly put to death nine hun-
dred French Huguenots, that under Coligni's patronage, had
* The cornet, who had formerly been a tailor, came into the king's pre-
sence armed with pistols. You must, said he, go immediately along with
me. " Whither ?" asked the king. " To the army." " By what warrant?"
demanded Charles. Joyce pointed to his soldiers, tall, handsome, and well
armed. " Yourwarrant," said the king, " is in fair characters, and legible."
25. What division arose among the anti-royalists? What was the new
sect called, and who was at its head? What was Cromwell's position?
What measures did he take to get the king into his power ? Does it appear
that Charles might yet, by concessions, have been reconciled to his people ?
Where was he kept by Cromwell ? — 26. Give the sequel to the history of
Charles I. — 27. What discovery was made by James Cartier? For
whom ? When ? What city did he found, and when ? By whom and
when was St. Augustine founded ? What massacre is related ?
AMERICA COLONIZED.
nade themselves a home in the wilderness, to escape the per-
jiecutions of their native land. As this occurred while the mas-
sacre of St. Bartholomew was plotting, it may well be sup-
posed the government of France paid no attention to the
slaughter of French heretics in distant lands ; but the Cheva-
lier Gouges made a private expedition, in which he avenged
their death, by slaying two hundred of the Spanish settlers of
Florida. This country was discovered for Spain in 1512, by
Ponce de Leon, an aged Spanish grandee, who ranged the New
World in search of a fabulous " fountain of health." In 1603
Henry IV., of France, sent out the Sietjr de Monts, who founded
^Fort Royal. Quebec was begun by Champlain in 1608.
| 28. On the failure of Sir Walter Raleigh's attempts to colo-
nize Virginia, the English government, fearing the encroachment
Im the French and Spanish, divided between two companies the
extensive coast of what is now the Republic of America. The
northern part was assigned to the '.' London Company," and the
southern, to the " Plymouth Company." The settlers of the
lLondon company succeeded, by means of finding a warrior, na-
vigator, and magistrate combined in Capt. John Smith, " the
father of Virginia." They established a permanent settle-
ment in Jamestown. The grand sachem of the natives was
JPowhatan, before whom, on one occasion, Smith was brought
a prisoner, and condemned to die. When his head had been
placed upon the block, Pocahontas, the young daughter of the
chief, laid her head on Smith's to save his life, or first receive
lithe stroke. The chief relented, and the Indian princess after-
( wards carried provisions to the colony, and informed them of
| the plots laid by the natives to destroy them.
29. The Plymouth company were unsuccessful in their first
j attempts to colonize. In 1620 the May Flower sailed under
j their auspices from Plymouth, with one hundred settlers. These
; were a part of the congregation of John Robinson, who had
removed from England to Holland, to enjoy that religious
freedom which James I. denied them ; they being puritans, of
a sect denominated separatists. They now sought a home
in the western wilds, regarding themselves but as Pilgrims
in this world. They named the place where they settled Fly-
mouth, from that which they last saw in England. Their suc-
cess and godly quiet was made known. When Charles I.
added to his father's tyranny, a great emigration occurred of
those noble spirits, — who could not in matters of conscience
bend to human authority, — who would not bow to lawless se-
cular oppression ;-— and who wished not for the strife of ambi-
3T. By whom was it retaliated? Who discovered Florida? By whom
was Port Royal founded, and when? — 28. What companies were now
formed by the English ? How was our coast divided between them ? Which
was the first permanent settlement made on the coast between Canada and
Florida? What is said of Captain Smith? Relate the heroism of Poca-
hontas.— 29. Under whose auspices did the May Flower sail ? Who were
the persons embarked ? Where did they settle ? What drove great num-
bers of their best population from England to America ?
36t
Modern His.
PERI'D III.
CHAP. II.
French.
16©4.
Port Royal
founded.
1608.
Quebec.
English.
160*.
Jamestown
founded.
1620.
Plymouth.
(The Pil-
grims sign
the first
constitution
of America
in the cabin
of the May
Flower.)
1628.
Salem.
163©.
Boston.
1636.
Hartford.
Providence
1639.
New Haven
366
THE AMERICAN UNION BEGINS.
Modern His.
PERPD III.
CHAP. II.
1609.
Hudson ri-
ver disco-
vered.
1614.
New York
founded.
1615.
Albany
founded.
163$.
Maryland
named after
the queen of
Charles I.
tion and of blood. These emigrated to the New World,
where, in prayer and pious trust — in hardship and savage war-
fare, they laid the foundation of a great republic. In 1643, four
colonies, Plymouth, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New
Haven, having each established within itself a representative
democracy, formed a Union, their delegates meeting every year
to devise good regulations, and guard the common safety.
30. In the meantime an English navigator, Henry Hudson,
sailing in the service of the Dutch, discovered the Hudson river,
to which both the Dutch and the English laid claim. The
Dutch, however, took possession of the country in its vicinity,
and founded New York and Albany. Swedes and Finlanders
settled Delaware. Lord Baltimore, an English catholic, be-
came, by a patent from Charles I., proprietor of Maryland ; and
his brother, Leonard Calvert, conducted the first colony to that
state.
29. What was done in relation to union by four of the colonies ? — SO.
Who discovered the Hudson river ? What nations claimed it ? What towns
did the Dutch found?
•'/V
pig )*"' /^ ;" ^ ^>tCoraova?J--vOr/ ty ^£jK
fl_ \ / « 1ST D >*■ ^ PTPT^l Guadix^Cartha- «K<
Ourique^ Seville f^ji^L^^il S *M
^ jMalaga^ _ J
sI.1.eonjL
MAP No. J 1
SPAIN
AND
PORTUGAL.
PERIOD IV.
THE PEACE OF? jg^gC CLOSING THE THIRTY
WESTPHALIA,
I
YEARS "WAR,
THE PEACE OF
UTRECHT, CLOSIN
.}
TO
1T13,
C THE WARS OF THE
Z SPANISH SUCCESSION,
CHAPTER I.
France.
1. The peace of Westphalia left the conflicting claims of
France and Spain unsettled, and the war between these two
powers still continued. Louis XIV. being a minor, the reins of
government were held by his mother, Anne of Austria, who
was guided entirely by the counsels of cardinal Mazarin, the
successor of Richelieu. Paris was filled with seditious spirits,
and the intrigues of the capital soon plunged the nation in civil
war. The parliament of Paris,* instigated by the cardinal de
* This parliament was a judicial, not a legislative body. No meeting of
the national assembly was held from the regency of Mary de Medici, till the
reign of Louis XVI.
Period III. — Chap. L — 1. What powers were at war after the treaty of
Westphalia ? Who was regent of France ? Who successor of Richelieu as
first minister ? What was the state of Paris ? What claims were set up
by the parliament of Paris ? What was this parliament ? (See note.)
367
Modern His.
PERFD IV.
chap. i.
368
THE WARS OP THE FRONDE.
Modem His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. I.
1649.
" La jour-
nee des Bar-
ricades."
1651.
The differ-
ent sides
called Fron-
ders and
Mazarins.
ST. AN-
TOIJYE.
M'lle.Mont-
pensier
figures.
Louis XIV.
declared of
age.
("The
states" or
"states-ge-
neral," the
French con-
gress or par-
liament.)
Retz, an ambitious rival of Mazarin, and roused by the example
of their English neighbors, claimed the authority of examining,
and refusing to pass, the edicts of the crown. The discontented
among the nobility and citizens of Paris, supported the par-
liament in its opposition to the measures of Mazarin. This
minister, in want of money to support the war with Spain, or-
dered a fine to be levied upon the new buildings in the suburbs
of Paris, grounding his right upon an old act which forbade the
erection of buildings in these places. The parliament prohibited
the levy, and the minister was obliged to desist. Other occa-
sions of discord arose, until Mazarin arrested and committed to
prison the president and five of the most factious members.
2. The mob of Paris, joined by some of the more respectable
citizens, proceeded on the following day to barricade the streets.
The royal troops attacked them. The whole populace rose in
arms, and the court was forced to yield, and delivered up the pri-
soners, when the city returned to order. The queen regent, how-
ever, did not consider the seditious capital a place of safety ; and
with the young king and Mazarin she retired to St. Germain.
The insurrections continued, and were called " The Wars of the
Fronde?'' Some of those who were engaged being armed with
slings, the wits of the court contemptuously applied to the insur-
gents the epithet of " frondeurs," or " slingers." Constant in-
trigues and change of parties perplex the history of these wars, and
sometimes give it a ludicrous air. The generals who figured most
were Conde and Turenne. Towards their close a battle was
fought at Paris, near the suburb St. Antoine, between Conde,
who had brought troops from Spain, and the royal forces under
the command of Turenne, which was at last decided in favor of
the frondeurs under Conde, by the intrepidity of Mademoiselle
Montpensier, daughter of the duke of Orleans.*
3. After five years of civil wTar, the French nation, without
having advanced one step towards freedom, again humbly sub-
mitted themselves to the royal authority. Louis XIV., though
young, assumed the government, entered Paris triumphant, and
was welcomed by the acclamations of his people. Conde re-
paired to Spain. No clamors for the assembling of the states
were heard, and Louis directed the parliament of Paris to pre-
sume no more to interfere with his affairs. Jlfter this period
* She prevailed on the municipal officers to open the gate St. Antoine;
when she directed the firing of the guns of the Bastile, and even with her
own hand applied the match. The court party by this means lost the bat-
tle. " She has killed her husband," said Mazarin, who knew that she was
ambitious to marry some crowned head ; and in fact these valorous proceed-
ings of the lady decided Charles II. of England (according to Clarendon) not
to offer her his hand.
1. By whom were its claims supported ? What acts of hostility occurred
between the minister and the parliament?— 2. What was the cause of the
queen taking the young king to St. Germain ? What were these insurrections
called ? What account can you give of them ? — 3. How lo-g did ihey con-
tinue ? What did the French people gain by these wars ? How did they re-
ceive Louis XIV. on his assuming the sovereignty 7 Was any thins said of- ,
assembling a national legislature? What was tha> of France called^ (See note.)
CHRISTINA ABANDONS HER POST. 369
the French monarch exercised unlimited power. During the Modem ms.
wars of the Fronde, the Spanish war languished, but now, under peri'd iv.
the conduct of Turenne, it was prosecuted with vigor. Conde, chap- l
who commanded the Spanish armies, undertook the siege of ^"-v-x^
Arras, but was repulsed by the French, — compelled to raise the^"L,'etat
siege and retreat. The successes of the hostile nations were moi." i
nearly equal, until Mazarin obtained for Louis the alliance of a™a{ge
Cromwell, who now governed the commonwealth of England, said this
In consequence of this treaty, 6,000 English joined the French king'
army in Flanders. Dunkirk fell before their united strength, *6«*S.
and was assigned to the English. kirk
4. Spain and France became alike desirous of peace; and the cet5iet0
ambassadors of the respective sovereigns met in the isle of English.)
Pheasants, in the Pyrenees, and settled its terms. By the
"Treaty of the Pyrenees," Philip agreed to pardon the revolted
Catalans,! and Louis, the prince of Conde. Louis espoused p
Maria Theresa, the infanta of Spain, but renounced all claim jr?
upon the Spanish monarchy. Mazarin died soon after the con- p
elusion of this treaty, which completed the achievement of those ^ " j
great objects of policy undertaken by Richelieu, and continued jf
hVhis successor. France was extended in territory, her nobles tA-FhVn%
iiiT tit r> * ■ i i -r» • i habitants of
humbled, and the house ol Austria weakened. But it was the Catalonia.
day of their sunshine, that, with the Bourbons, engendered Se3e54.)Se
the storm of the revolution, which at length overthrew them.
5. SWEDEN. — Christina, the daughter of Gustavus Adol-
phus, who was seated on the throne of Sweden at the conclu-
sion of the thirty years' war, acquired considerable renown by
her attention to literature, and her patronage of men of letters,
which drew to her court the learned of other nations. Her
example shows how fruitless is mere intellectual vigor and cul-
tivation, when not guided by benevolence and piety. Her lite-
rary labors, instead of qualifying her to fill with usefulness and 1654.
honor the station in which Providence had placed her, wrought c
IS
b
Charles I b
X. ^
in her a distaste to the cares of royalty, and the mere selfish signs
wish of folio wing, undisturbed, her own propensities. Resigning cro^n
her crown to Charles Gustavus, she repaired to Rome; and, t0. her
that she might enjoy the charms of Italian society there, she cousin,
renounced the protestant faith, in which she had been bred. Thus
the imputation of being a heretic did not interfere with her
pleasures. In her visits to Paris, her dissolute life shocked even
the French court, and her cruelties to her attendants excited
their abhorrence. i«»w
6. Charles X. of Sweden conquered Poland, and compelled JJjSJJ,'
John Casimir, the reigning king, to flee to Silesia. The Poles x.
3. What did the French monarchy become ? How did the war with Spain
proceed? Whose aid turned the scale? What is said of Dunkirk? — 4t.
Give an account of the peace of the Pyrenees. What events occurred soon
after? What objects of Richelieu's policy had now been carried out? — 5.
Who and what was Christina? By what did she acquire some renown?
What may be learned by her example ? To whom did she resign her crown ?
Give some account of her subsequent life? — 6. What conquest was made
by Charles X. ?
47
370
THE LONG PARLIAMENT DETERIORATES.
Modern His.
PERPDIV.
CHAP. I,
Peace of
Oliva.
Kingly
power abo-
lished.
(The excise
system pro-
jected by
Pym, and
carried first
into effect
by this par-
liament.)
1649-
Cromwell
subdues
Ireland.
1650.
(May 21.
The mar-
quis of
Montrose
hung by the
covenanters
on a gallows
30 feet
high.)
July 15.
Charles IL
proclaimed
king of
Scotland.
(fMr.
Southworth
a venerable
catholic
clergyman,
aged 72. On
the scaffold
he reproach-
ed his perse-
cutors, and
justly, for
their incon-
sistency.)
revolted from the Swedish yoke, and, assisted by the Russians,
Danes, and Germans, expelled the Swedes. Charles now turned
his arms against Denmark. His death, which occurred while
he was engaged in the siege of Copenhagen, left the throne of
Sweden to his son, then a minor. A treaty of peace was con-
cluded at Oliva, in West Prussia, by which the Danish and
Polish monarch each made some sacrifices to Sweden ; and John
Casimir was restored to his throne.
7. ENGLAND. — After the execution of Charles I., the com-
mons passed an act, abolishing kingly power as useless, bur-
densome, and dangerous. They also abolished the house of
lords, and committed the great seal, the form and inscription of
which they changed, to a certain number of persons, who were
styled " the Conservators of the liberties of England." The
proceedings of the Long Parliament in respect to revenue, de-
prived them of the favor of the people. At first the civil war
had been carried on much by voluntary contributions on both
sides. The sacrifices made by individuals are almost incredi-
ble. The marquis of Worcester gave to Charles 100,000
pounds, and the marquis of Newcastle his whole estate.
On the side of the republicans, men often gave all their plate,
and women all their jewels. But after the king's death the
parliament devised new methods of taxation, and drained the
people. And although at first they were self-denying, at last
they appropriated in one way and another, large sums to them-
selves and their relations. But their power was upheld by a
standing army of 45,000 under Cromwell. He, however, saw
the growing discontent of the public mind, and shaped his
course accordingly. Laws were made, meantime, of great
strictness. Under one of these a man fwas burnt at Winchester
for being a popish priest. Cromwell was appointed by parlia-
ment lord lieutenant of Ireland, and at the head of an army he
entered the island where the earl of Ormond, an adherent of
Charles I., was still in arms. Cromwell reduced the Irish to
submission, and established the authority of parliament. The
marquis of Montrose, attempting to raise troops in Scotland
for the king, was taken and executed, with forty of his fol-
lowers.
8. Meanwhile the Scottish covenanters, though little attached-
to the royal family, resolved to support the monarchy, and raised
an army of 36,000, — the command of which was given to Gen.
Lesley. They then proclaimed Charles II. king of Scotland.
6. Did Poland continue in subjection? What country was Charles at-
tacking when he died ? Give an account of the peace of Oliva. Who suc-
ceeded Charles X. ? — T. What act was now passed in England by the com-
mons ? How did they deal with the house of lords ? Who were the keepers
of the great seal? What was the cause of the public disaffection to the
Long Parliament? How was money raised to carry on the civil war?
What was done after the king's death ? What part was taken by Cromwell ?
With whom did he contend in Ireland, and with what result? Give some
account of the marquis of Montrose ? — 8. What was done by the Scottish
covenanters ?
THE PROTECTORATE.
371
Charles, who had sought refuge in Holland, embarked for that
country ; and on his arrival, before he landed, he signed the
covenant. Parliament now recalled Cromwell from Ireland,
made him captain-general of all their forces, and sent him against
the Scots. He defeated them at the battle of Dunbar, gaining
the victory mainly by his own regiment. He then made him-
self master of Edinburgh and Leith. In the meantime, the
Scots, though weakened by divisions among themselves, and
jealous of the prince they supported, (having kept a national
fast for his sins and those of his family,) had, notwithstanding,
assembled an army, with which Charles entered England.
Cromwell followed ; and a year after the battle of Dunbar he
defeated the royal troops at Worcester. Charles was obliged to
flee. After more than a month's conceal ment in different places,*
and under different disguises, he landed in Normandy.
9. The authority of the " Commonwealth" was now ac-
knowledged throughout the whole extent of the English pos-
sessions. Cromwell took care to keep in his own hands the
entire control of the army. The parliament now distrusted
him, — of which he was aware. Taking a file of soldiers, he
entered the Parliament hall, commanded the speaker to leave
his chair, and told the members they had sat long enough, un-
less they had done more good. Then, with his thick and con-
fused utterance, he addressed individual members — telling Sir
Harry Vane he was a juggler — Chaloner, that he was a drunk-
ard— and in short, charging some with breaking one command-
ment, and some another, and telling the whole, M You are no
longer a parliament • I say you are no longer a parliament."
Cromwell, now, while the name of liberty was upon his lips,
became a military despot. By a council of his officers, he was
appointed " Protector of the Commonwealth," and addressed by
the title of " highness." He next summoned a number of men
from the three kingdoms, who, having assembled at London, he
pronounced them a parliament ; but did not allow them to sit
long, for they showed too much the character of honest patriots
to suit his views.
10. Jealousies arose between England and Holland, and a
naval war ensued. After several undecisive engagements, the
English fleet under Blake and Monk, engaged the Dutch, un-
* At one time he concealed himself among the thick branches of an oak
tree. While the persons in pursuit of him passed underneath, he heard them
express their desire of seizing and delivering him to his father's murderers.
At another time he rode two or three days journey with Mrs. Lane, the
wife of one of his adherents, on a pillion behind him. She told her cousins
where she stopped at night, that the young man was one of her neighbors —
that he was out of health, and begged they would send him directly to bed.
In this way she kept him out of sight.
8. What by Charles II. ? Whom did parliament put in command against
the Scots? Give an account of the battle of Dunbar? Of Worcester?
What was now the situation of Charles ? — 9. What was the situation of the
Commonwealth ? Describe the manner in which Cromwell turned out the
remaining part of the long parliament ? What title did he now receive ? Whom
did he cause to assemble ? — 10. Give an account of the war with the Dutch?
Modern His,
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. L
Sept. 3.
DUNBAR.
Cromwell
defeats the
Scots, their
loss 3,000 k.
10,000 pri-
soners.
1651.
Sept. 3
WOR C ES-
TER.
Cromwell
again
defeats the
Scots. His
army 30,000,
he kills
3,000, takes
6 or 7.000.
1653.
April 20.
Cromwell
turns out
the parlia-
ment called
the
"Rump Par-
liament,"
it being the
remains of
the Long
Parliament.
(Called
"Barebone's
Parlia-
ment," from
a member
named
Praise-God
Barebones.)
War with
the Dutch.
3?2
THE COLONIAL SYSTEM.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV,
CHAP. I.
1655.
Jamaica
conquered
by admiral
Penn, the
father of the
founder of
Pennsyl-
vania.
1658.
August 12.
Death of
Cromwell.
3
I
I
a:
o
oa
N
1660.
General
Monk
restores
Charles
II.
der Van Tromp and De Ruyter, off Portland. The battle
was fought with obstinacy for two days ; the third the Dutch
were forced to yield, after which they sued for peace. England,
now under the energetic government of Cromwell, rose to an
importance among the nations of Europe, which had been un-
known since the days of Elizabeth. The Spaniards and French,
the Venetians and Swiss, courted the alliance of the protector.
He formed connections with France, and engaged in the Spanish
war. Besides the forces sent to the continent in aid of France,
a naval armament was dispatched to the West Indies ; and Ja-
maica, one of the Spanish Islands, was conquered by admiral
Penn, and retained by the English. The settlements in North
America had been favored by the Long Parliament From
Cromwell they had a severer blow than they had ever received
from the Stuarts, in the "Navigation Acts," by which he intro-
duced a restricted system of trade, prohibiting the colonists from
using their own ships, and thus obliging them to sell their pro-
ducts to the English, and from them to obtain their supplies.
11. Cromwell's domestic government was perhaps as mild
and equitable as his dangerous situation would permit, beset as
he was by enemies who conspired against his life ; yet it was
rigorous, and he was guilty of some acts of tyranny and injus-
tice, on which Charles had never dared to venture. He died
five years after he obtained the protectorate, and was succeeded
by his son Richard, whose mild and unambitious disposition,
so unlike that of his father, took alarm at the turbulence and
cabals which surrounded him. He resigned the protectorate, and
retiring, first to the continent, and afterwards to his estate in
the country, he lived unmolested and unoffending. The nation
was now divided into many parties and sects. The people be-
came weary of confusion and change, and desired in their hearts
the revival of the monarchy.
12. General Monk, an able commander, both by sea and
land, was at the head of the army in Scotland. He now march-
ed into England, and advanced to London, where he proceeded
to execute a plan he had formed for restoring Charles II. to the
throne. Disguising his designs under the appearance of zeal
for the commonwealth, he procured the dissolution of the par-
liament then in session, and the assembling of a new one ; and
succeeded in securing the election of friends of the monarchy
as members of the new parliament. On its assembling, a mes-
senger, bearing a letter from Charles to Gen. Monk, was intro-
duced. The prince offered a general pardon, promised liberty
of conscience — assured the soldiers of their arrears, and sub-
10. What was England in regard to foreign respectability ? What war
did Cromwell maintain ? What island did admiral Penn conquer for the
English ? What is said of the North American settlements ? — 1 1 . What was
the character of Cromwell's domestic government ? Give an account of
his successor. — 12. Who was Gen. Monk, and what did he do? What
plan had he formed? What measures did he cause to be taken in reference
to a parliament ? What letter was read ?
CHARLES II. RESTORED.
373
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. T.
Character
of Charles
1661.
Measures of
Charles.
mitted all grants to parliamentary arbitration. The house of Modem Jfo-
peers now took their share in the government, and both houses —
attending, Charles II. was proclaimed king. Sir Matthew
Hale, the distinguished chief justice, aided by Prynne, wished
to have limitations imposed upon the royal authority ; but these
important suggestions were, for selfish ends, overruled by Monk.
Charles sailed from the Hague, — was met at Dover by general
Monk, and conducted to London. His return was hailed with
joy by the nation.
13. Charles thus restored to his throne, everything conspired
to promise a popular and prosperous reign. But the character
of the monarch soon blighted the hopes, of the nation ; and
proved that even the school of adversity does not always teach
wisdom. His agreeable person, and easy, engaging manners,
made him liked by all who approached him, even by those
whose judgments most strongly disapproved the unblushing
profligacy of his life. Thus his vicious example became par-
ticularly dangerous to his subjects; and licentiousness quickly
spread from the court to the extremes of the kingdom. His
first measures were mild and popular, but his people soon
found that his engagements weighed little. Notwithstanding he
had sworn to support the covenant, and to protect the rights of
conscience, he re-established episcopacy as the exclusive religion;
restored the bishops to their seats in parliament, and the inferior
clergy to their benefices. The disappointed puritans had a still
more galling demonstration to encounter in the " Act of Uni-
formity." By this it was ordained that every minister, school-
master, or fellow of a college, must declare his consent to every
thing contained in the book of common prayer ; and that all
ministers should be ejected who had not episcopal ordination.
By this oppressive act two thousand ministers, in one day, were
driven from their livings.
14. Prosecutions were commenced against those concerned
in the death of Charles I. Some were executed, and some fled
to foreign kingdoms, where, under the name, " regicides,"
they were hunted. Three of these judges, Goffe, Whalley,
and Dixwell, concealed themselves in New England. Fears
of popery existed, and were increased by the marriage of the
king with Catharine of Portugal, a catholic princess. But
although the amiable character and manners of the queen gave
general satisfaction, the king treated her at first with coldness,
then with insult, and finally with neglect.
15. Charles engaged in hostilities with the Dutch on false
pretences, hoping by means of involving himself in a popular
12. What attempt was made by Sir Matthew Hale ? Relate some of the
circumstances of Charles' return. — 13. What blighted the hopes of the
English nation respecting iheir monarch ? How was he faithless to the co-
venanters ? What was ordained in the Act of Uniformity ? How did this
affect the clergy who could not conscientiously conform ? — 14L What ac-
count can you give of the regicides, as those were called concerned in the
death of the late king ? Who was queen, and how was she treated by the
king? — 15. Give an account of the war with the Dutch.
{Edward
Hyde, after-
wards Lord
Clarendon,
lord chan-
cellor and
prime mi-
nister.)
1664.
War with
Holland.
374
THE ENGLISH TAKE NEW YORK.
.Modern His.
PERPD IV.
CHAP. I.
1664.
New York
taken from
the Dutch.
1666.
Off
DUNKIRK
English de-
feat the
Dutch.
(Prince Ru-
pert was
cousin to
the king,
being the
son of Eli-
zabeth and
the elector
Palatine.)
1665.
Plague in
London.
1666.
Sept. 2 to 6.
Great fire.
1667.
Peace of
Breda.
166T
Oarolinas,
&(.'. granted
war, to obtain money from parliament, and regain the good
will of his subjects, whose jealousies were aroused by the in-
terference of the Dutch in their foreign trade. He wished also
to restore to his nephew, William III., the dignity of stadt-
holder, which had formerly belonged to the family of Orange,
but had been recently abolished by the Dutch. Holland was
now, from her commerce, wealth and industry, a first rate power.
John de Witt, who was at the head of the republican party,
had before entered into an alliance with France. The English
dispatched squadrons to Africa and America, and in both, they
took possession of the Dutch settlements. It was at this time
that Col. Nichols took New Amsterdam, from the Dutch go-
vernor Stuyvesant; and in honor of James, duke of York,
to whom his brother, king Charles, had patented this country,
it received the name of New York.
16. A naval engagement took place off the coast of Holland,
between the Dutch fleet, under the command of the admiral
Opdam, and the English, under the duke of York, which
ended in the defeat of the Dutch. Louis XIV. now sent out a
fleet to aid them. The king of Denmark, also, jealous of the
naval power of England, came forward to their assistance. In
the following year a sea-fight took place off Dunkirk, the
English being commanded by Monk, now duke of Albemarle,
and prince Rupert ; and the Dutch by De Ruyter, and the
younger Van Tromp. It lasted four days, with alternate suc-
cess, when at length the arrival of another English squadron
compelled the Dutch to retire.
17. In London a dreadful plague broke out, and nearly one
hundred thousand persons fell its victims. A terrible fire burned
four days, and consumed thirteen thousand buildings. Charles,
though generally selfish, showed on these occasions, a fatherly
solicitude for his subjects. This was particularly the case in
the activity manifested in extinguishing the fire, and providing
for the suffering population, who were exposed unsheltered to
the elements. A Dutch fleet, under De Ruyter, entered the
Thames, and burned several British ships of war. Shortly
after this, a treaty of peace was signed at Breda. England
retained possession of JYeiv York, and ceded to the Dutch
Surinam.
18. Charles gave to his favorites large tracts of land in Ame-
rica. To lord Clarendon and others he made a considerable
grant, which he extended, giving, in 1667, to lord Shaftes-
bury and others, a territory comprehending the whole southern
section of the American Republic. For this new country,
Shaftesbury, with the aid of John Locke, the great writer on
15. What place on our coast was taken from the Dutch ? What change
of name occurred? — 18. Give an account of the naval engagement off the
coast of Holland. What nations aided the Dutch? What battle took
place off Dunkirk?— IT. What calamities now visited London? What
was the conduct of the king on these occasions ? What was done by a
Dutch fleet ? What was gained and lost by England at the peace of Breda ?
TIME OP THE FOUNDING OP CHARLESTON.
375
the " Human Understanding," attempted to form such a constitu- Modern His
tion as should realize their beau-ideal of political wisdom. This
turned out a complete failure ; but the settlements in the Caro-
linas grew, and governed themselves much after their own will.
The proprietors, however, sent governors, of whom, Sayle
founded Charleston. In the wars between Spain and England,
these provinces came into collision with the Spanish province
of Florida. In Virginia, which was at that time a loyal state,
the misrule of governor Berkeley produced a disastrous in-
surrection, headed by Nathaniel Bacon; and a bloody civil
war ensued, — which was quieted by the death of the leader, and
the submission of his followers.
1676.
Bacon's re-
bellion in
Virginia.
CHAPTER II.
Europe during the Wars of the Spanish Succession.
1. While England and the United Provinces had been weak-
ening each other by mutual hostilities, Louis XIV. was matur-
ing plans for the aggrandizement of the French monarchy by
taking from Spain her provinces on his northern frontier. The
death of Philip IV., had left the throne of that kingdom to be
filled by his son Charles II., a sickly infant; and the re-
gency was committed to the queen-mother, a woman of little
ability. Notwithstanding the renunciation of Louis on his mar-
riage, he took advantage of the time to bring forward claims, in
right of his queen, to the country which he meant to conquer,
and entered the Spanish Netherlands at the head of 40,000
troops. The Spaniards were unprepared for the invasion, and
town after town fell before the French. The rapid successes
of Louis alarmed the other powers, and the English, Dutch, and
Swedes, united against him in a league, called " the Triple Al-
liance." Louis was now willing to negotiate ; and at Jiix-la-
Chapelle the ambassadors of the different nations met, and
formed a treaty of peace, which left to the French monarch the
conquests he had made, but compelled him to relinquish all
other claims upon the Spanish provinces.
2. Louis, however, determined to take a future occasion to
revenge himself upon Holland for the share she had taken in
obstructing his ambitious views- and he also sought to detach
1665.
Ambitious
projects of
Louis XIV
The Triple
alliance.
166S.
Peace of
Aix-La-
Chapclle.
18. To whom had Charles given lands, and where ? What was done in
regard to a constitution ? What place was founded ? Where was a rebellion ?
Chap. II. — 1. What advantage of the weak state of the Spanish monarchy-
was the king of France preparing to take ? Relate his first invasion of the
Spanish Netherlands. What nations were alarmed at his grasping spirit?
What alliance, did they form ? What peace succeeded? — 2. Did the king
of France make this treaty in good faith ?
376
WARS OF THE SPANISH SUCCESSION.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. II.
Charles gets
from his par-
liament a
large supply-
to aid the
Dutch, and
uses it
against
them.
William,
Prince of
Orange.
16T2.
SO LB AY.
Naval battle
between the
Dutch and
English and
French.
French
conquests.
England from the triple alliance. The wants and weakness of
Charles, led him to the shameful measure of a secret treaty, by
which he agreed to assist the king of France in the conquest of
the United Provinces, and the Low Countries ; to embrace pub-
licly the catholic faith, and to establish it in his kingdom; and in
reward of these services, he was to receive from Louis the sum
of 200,000 pounds, besides an annual subsidy ; and in case of
rebellion in England, a military force.
3. While the Dutch were flattering themselves with the hope
of a long peace, Louis, at the head of an army, invaded and
conquered the duchy of Lorraine, in order to furnish himself
with an easy passage into the United Provinces. He had found
measures to detach Sweden, as well as England, from the triple
alliance ; and to bring some of the German nobles into the
French interest. This extensive confederacy, and the formid-
able military and naval preparations, threatened the entire over-
throw of the republic. Charles, keeping the treaty he had
formed a secret, obtained from his unsuspecting parliament the
largest supply the commons had ever granted to a king, in order
to enable him to sustain the engagements under which the triple
alliance placed the English nation. He then, acting according
to his secret treaty, ordered an attack upon a Dutch fleet from
Smyrna, valued at two millions sterling ; and shortly after, on
frivolous pretexts, he declared war against Holland. The com-
bined English and French fleets amounted to more than a hun-
dred sail, while the army collected by Louis numbered 120,000,
commanded by the ablest generals of the age.
4. The Dutch, relying on the faith of treaties, were not pre-
pared with a sufficient military force. The strength of the re-
publicans was also weakened by dissensions among themselves.
William, prince of Orange, was appointed commander in chief
of the army. De Witt, whose authority was now declining,
sought to recover it, and to inspirit the states to some great
naval operation. He equipped a fleet, which, under admiral De
Ruyter, came up with the united fleets of the English and French,
as they lay at anchor in Solbay. De Ruyter attacked them,
but obtaining no decisive advantage, he retreated to the coast
of Holland, whither he was pursued by the English admiral.
Meanwhile the French king, assisted in his command by Tu-
renne, moved northward at the head of a large army, and
reached the Rhine almost without opposition ; took JYimeguen,
Arnheim, and invested Utrecht. The prince of Orange, with his
small army, retreated before him ; and in a few weeks, all the
2. What treaty was made by him with Charles II.? — 3. What was the
first hostile movement of Louis ? What nations were now united with Louis
against the Dutch ? What double-dealing did Charles practise with his par-
liament ? What attack did he order ? What fleet and army was collected
against the Dutch ? — 4. What was now the condition of the Dutch ? Who
was made commander of the army ? Relate the naval operations. By whom
was Louis XIV. assisted in command? What successes did they obtain?
What provinces were left to the Dutch?
THE DUTCH WITHSTAND THE FRENCH.
377
provinces except Holland and Zealand, had submitted to the
conqueror.
•5. This crisis roused the citizens of Amsterdam and of the
whole province of Holland, and every hand was nerved. The
populace were taken into pay. Ships were stationed in the harbor,
and the Dutch consigned their fertile fields and flourishing vil-
lages to destruction, opening the sluices of their canals, and inun-
dating the country to save the city. Yet while they prepared
to resist, they sought for peace, but their overtures were re-
jected ; and the resolute Dutch determined to leave their native
land, if they could not defend it, and settle in India or America,
In the frenzy of the times, the people, feeling the necessity of
an acknowledged sovereign, and blaming the two De Witts, by
whose influence the office of stadtholder had been abolished,
now rose in fury, imprisoned and put them to death, and invested
the prince of Orange with that dignity. The united fleet of
the confederates about this time advanced towards the coast of
Holland, having on board the army which was designed to
complete its conquest. The Dutch thanked an overruling Pro-
vidence when it was carried back to sea, and prevented by se-
vere storms from landing the army.
6. The emperor of Germany, the king of Spain, and the
elector of Brandenburgh, now awoke to the grasping ambition
of Louis, and were ready to lend the States their aid. The
prince of Orange retook JYaerden, and joining his forces with
those of the emperor under Mox\tecuculi, they besieged and
took Bonne, and subduing the principal part of the electorate
of Cologne, interrupted the communication between France and
the United provinces. The French were compelled to evacuate
their conquests and retreat. The following year the parliament
of England compelled Charles II. to abandon his shameful
French alliance, and make peace with Holland.
7. The efforts of the French monarch to sustain the war were
unremitting. He brought, this year, four armies into the field,
and commenced the campaign by marching in person into
Franche Compte, and subduing the whole province. Conde, at
the head of another army, encountered the prince of Orange at
Senefle in Brabant, and a bloody battle ensued, where twenty
thousand were left dead on the field, without any decisive vic-
tory. On the side of Germany, the French were successful, for
there Turenne commanded. He conquered the Palatinate, but
sanctioned cruelties. Louis began to fear the result of the com-
bination against him, and bribed the king of England to prorogue
his parliament, lest it should compel him to unite in the con-
federacy.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. II.
Dutch pa-
triotism.
16TO.
The two De
Witts killed.
Dutch suc-
cesses.
1674.
SEMEFFE.
20,000 men
killed with-
out any de-
cisive re-
sult.
5. What was now the conduct of the citizens of Amsterdam? Which
of their own patriots did they destroy ? — 6. Who now aided the Dutch?
Relate the military operations of the Dutch and their allies ? To what did
the English parliament compel the king ?— T. Relate the progress of the
French in the north. In Brabant. On the side of Germany. For what
did Louis bribe Charles ?
48
378
JOHN SOBIESKI CHECKS THE TURKS.
Modern His-
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. II.
1678-
Peace of
Nimeguen.
The Jesuit
mission-
aries in the
early stage
of the Jesuit
society.
16t3
Marquette
discovers
the mouths
of the Mis-
souri, Ohio,
and
Arkansas.
Turks aid
the rebel-
lious Hun-
garians.
1683,
John So-
bieski de-
feats the
Turks.
(John Sobi-
eski is reck-
oned a
second
Charles
Martel.)
8. In the next campaign the imperial general, Montecuculi,
was opposed to Turenne, and by his skill prevented the progress
of the French. The death of Tnrenne, who was killed by a
cannon ball while reconnoitering the enemy, was an irreparable
misfortune to Louis. On the ocean, the French were victorious
chiefly through the skill of Du Quesne, who yet held but an
inferior rank in the navy. Several battles were fought, in one
of which De Ruyter, the Dutch admiral, was killed. Negotia-
tions for peace were entered into at JYimeguen, in 1678, the
Dutch retaining their former territories.
9. In the meantime, France gained by the efforts of the Je-
suit missionaries, the prospect of a great empire in America.
In 1640 they founded Montreal, to gain a starting point for
their great effort to convert and subjugate the natives. These
resolute and self-denying soldiers of the cross, carried their dis-
coveries up the Otto was, the St. Lawrence, and the great lakes ;
till finally Father Marquette, with but one companion, em-
barked in a little boat on the solitary Wisconsin; and, with a
courage not less remarkable than that of Columbus, the daunt-
less Jesuit floated seven days with the Wisconsin, then reach-
ing the object of his search, the great Mississippi, he followed
its course, discovering the mouths of the vast tributaries, Mis-
souri, Ohio, and Arkansas. La Salle, an enterprizing French-
man, undertook to colonize these regions, and was the first
European who, embarking on the upper Mississippi, followed
the river to the ocean. In honor of his master, Louis XIV.,
this extensive country was named by La Salle, Louisiana.
10. In Germany, the emperor Leopold was alarmed by a
rebellion of the Hungarians, aided by the Turks. Mahomet
IV., then on the Ottoman throne, invaded the empire with the
most formidable force which the Turks had ever sent against
Christendom, His army entered Germany, and laid siege to
Vienna. The suburbs were destroyed, and nothing less than
the surrender of the city was expected, when the renowned
John SoBiESKr, king of Poland, whose alliance the emperor
had obtained, joined by several of the German princes, arrived
before the Turkish camp. A battle ended in the precipitate
flight of the Turks, and the relief of the distressed city. Among
the spoils of the Turkish camp was found the celebrated stand-
ard of Mahomet, which was presented by the captors to the
pope. In other battles the Turks and Hungarians were de-
feated, and Hungary was restored to the empire.
11. Louis XIV., having raised the navy of France to a degree
of consequence unknown before his reign, various ports were
8. Relate the principal events of the next campaign. By what peace was
this war closed ? How did it leave the Dutch in point of territory ? — 9.
What city did the Jesuit missionaries make their starting point ? What ri-
vers did they explore ? What was their object ? Relate the voyage of Fa-
ther Marquette. Who was La Salle, and what did he do? — lO. Who was
emperor of Germany, and what cause of alarm had he ? Who was the
Turkish sultan ? What success had the Turks gained ? Relate what was
done by the king of Poland ? What was presented to the pope ?
LOUIS XIV., THE GREAT. 379
constructed at great expense. His squadrons commanded the Mode™ Ms.
Mediterranean, and in some measure stopped the depredations perpd iv.
of the Barbary pirates. He caused Algiers to be bombarded, chap. ii.
and obliged the Algerines to release their Christian captives, ^-^"^w
Louis in resentment towards the Genoese, who had assisted the
Spaniards, ordered their city also bombarded, and compelled the 16S4.
doge to implore his clemency at Versailles. This was the name Genoa bom-
of a palace which he had erected at enormous cost, and where barde '
he kept his court, with a degree of expense and splendor pro-
bably not equalled by any other monarch of Europe.
12. At this period, he lost his great minister, Colbert, who
by his patronage of manufactures and commerce, and his skill
in managing the revenue of the kingdom, had enabled his mo-
narch to maintain such expensive wars, and erect such magnifi-
cent edifices. Colbert had protected and patronized the Hugue-
nots. Louis was himself a bigot, and he was now encouraged
by Louvois, the successor of Colbert, to commence a religious 1685.
persecution, in the course of which, he revoked the edict of yokes the
Nantes, passed by Henry IV. The protestants were ordered to edict of
declare themselves converted by a day appointed. Of those who
were refractory, the leaders were broken on the wheel, while the (M Hu_
common people were hanged. The penalty of death was also guenots at
enacted against all who attempted to emigrate; — yet, notwith- ^J™
standing, 50,000 families abandoned their country. Louis thus America,
stained his character, and greatly injured France ; for by means some of our
of these emigrations, the French skill in manufactures was car- best popuia-
i -i ^iii« tion.)
ned to other countries, while a great amount ol wealth and in-
dustry was lost to their own.
13. From this period the power of Louis began to decline.
The French protestants carried with them a hatred of their kino;
which they infused into the hearts of their brethren in the neigh- 4«*®w-
boring kingdoms. A league of the princes belonging to the . ^?e
German empire was formed at Augsburg, for preventing the fur- ^ n ndP
ther encroachments of France ; and with them, Holland, Spain, Spain ami
and, finally, England united. Louis exerted his utmost vigor in ^"f^gf
preparing to withstand his numerous and powerful enemies. France.
The French were first in the field. The dauphin led an army 1688-9-
to the Rhine, and laid siege to Philipsburg, which fell before Jate, ^pro-
his arms. The French overran the Palatinate, where, by order te'stant
of the king, they destroyed the great towns, and spread desola- populated6"
tion through the country. This barbarous warfare served only Worms and
to render the enemies of France more inveterate, and the cam- surfer!
11. What had Louis XIV. done in respect to a navy for France ? What
in respect to the pirates and their prisoners ? How did he humble the Ge-
noese ? What account can you give of Versailles? — 12. Give an account
of the arrangements of Colbert ? In what respect was Louvois different, and
what did the king in part through his influence ? What cruelties were now
exercised against the Huguenots? In what respect did these enormities in-
jure Louis and his kingdom? — 13. Had the revocation of the edict of Mantes
and the persecution a permanent effect on the power of Louis ? What league
was now formed? What was now done by the French, and how did it af-
fect their cause ?
380
PEACE OP RYSWICK.
PERI'D IV
CHAP. II.
Dutch.
1692.
Off LA
HO QUE.
STEIJV-
KIRK.
English vie
torious.
Modem His. paign was, on the whole, against them. The following year
- Louis dispatched an army into Italy, under Catinat, which was
victorious over the forces of the duke of Savoy at Saluces.
Luxembourg obtained a victory over the Dutch and Spanish
on the plains of Fleurus. The naval operations of France were
also prosperous. Admiral Tourville defeated the combined
squadrons of the English and Dutch, ofTBeachy head, and even
torious. Off made a descent upon the coast of England.
BheadY 14. In the succeeding campaign, William, prince of Orange,
Tourviiie now kmg 0f England, who at the commencement of the war
English and was engaged in settling the affairs of that realm, resumed the
command in Flanders. Louis took Mons, and the French arms
were successful on the side of Spain ; yet this year, no decisive
advantages were obtained by either side. The following spring,
Louis besieged and took Namur, while Luxembourg was sta-
tioned so as to prevent the king of England from bringing re-
lief to the besieged town. But at sea, the French, under the
command of Tourville, were defeated off Cape La Hogue by the
English ; and at Steinkirk, William attacked and defeated their
army.
15. At Widdin, the prince of Baden, who commanded the
wmDiN. imperial forces, obtained a complete victory over the Turks.
French and with whom the French king was now in alliance. The follow-
Tfeated.e" ing year, however, a new vizier, of more military skill, changed
the face of affairs. During the absence of the prince of Baden,
who was settling disturbances in Transylvania, the Turks re-
took Widdin and made themselves masters of Belgrade, and
all Upper Hungary. Meanwhile the French general, Luxem-
bourg, surprised king William, who, with his army, occupied the
village of Neerwinden. The conflict here was long and obsti-
nate, and though victory at length declared for the French, it
king*of Eng- was dearly bought. Luxembourg afterwards took CharleroL
land. jn Spain, the mareschal de NoAiLLES,and in Piedmont, Cati-
nat, prosecuted the war with success. During the three re-
maining campaigns of this war, no event of consequence took
place except the conquest of Namur by king William. The
parties were at length desirous of peace, and a congress under
the mediation of Charles XI., now king of Sweden, assembled
at Ryswick to settle the terms. The basis of the treaty was
the restoration of all places taken during the war. France
acknowledged William as king of England.
16. Soon after the treaty of Ryswick, a battle took place at
Zenta, between the imperial forces under prince Eugene of Sa-
voy, and the Turks, under the command of the sultan Musta-
pha II., in which prince Eugene obtained a decisive victory
gtehneeTu?ksS 20,000 Turks were left dead on the field, besides prisoners and
Turks lose those drowned in attempting to escape. The pavilion of the sultan,
30,000 men. r & r r i
1694.
Turks take
Belgrade.
KEER-
WIJVDEN.
Luxem-
bourg de-
feats the
169T
Peace of
Ryswick.
ZEJfTA.
Prince Eu-
13. Give some account of the campaign of 1691. — 14. Of that of 1692.-—
15. What important battle was fought in 1693 ? Relate the battle of Neer-
winden ? What is said of the three last campaigns of this war ? Give an
account of the peace of Ryswick. — 16. Relate the battle of Zenta.
DEFEATS OF THE COVENANTERS-
38i
the great seal of the empire, and the immense stores of the Modern His-
army fell into the hands of the victors. This event produced perpd iv.
a peace between the German and Ottoman empires, which was chap. hi.
signed at Carlowitz, and which restored tranquillity to Europe. v«-*'"-v",w
CHAPTER III.
England.
1. Charles II. again outraged the feelings of English patriots,
by the sale of Dunkirk to the French, for the sum of J400,000.
His brother James, the duke of York, declared himself a con-
vert to the catholic religion, and the evident prepossessions of
the king to the same faith, awakened anew the fears of popery,
with its inquisitorial horrors. Charles, though he often offend-
ed his subjects, yet by his insinuating manners and scheming
brain, could ever find ways to recover their favor. He proposed
for this object, a marriage between the princess Mary, eldest
daughter of the duke of York, and William, prince of Orange ;
which, in spite of the remonstrances of James, he carried into
effect. On another occasion he obliged his brother, who was
much disliked by the people, to retire to Brussels. Great dis-
orders arose in Scotland, in consequence of the arbitrary mea-
sures of the English ministry, in the establishment of episco-
pacy in that kingdom. Dr. Sharp, archbishop of St. Andrews,
was murdered in his coach by Balfour, and eleven other co-
venanters. Graham, of Claverhouse, was defeated by the co-
venanters at Drumclog; but the duke of [Monmouth conquered
them at Bothwell bridge. Monmouth behaving with great
lenity to the prisoners, he was recalled in disgrace, and the duke
of York, who had returned, was sent by his brother to admin-
ister the government of Scotland. He cruelly persecuted the
covenanters, seeming to enjoy their sufferings.
2. The court party, during the last years of Charles, gathered
strength, and tyrannical principles were advanced, and gained
ground. A conspiracy was formed to oppose the succession of
the duke of York. Among the conspirators was lord Russell,
who was tried and executed. Another conspiracy, called the
Rye House Plot, was headed by the duke of Monmouth, a na-
tural son of Charles, which contemplated raising him to the
Charles II.
1668.
Charles II.
sells Dun-
kirk.
1675-6.
(This is the
period of
king Philip's
war, the
bloodiest of
all the In-
dian wars of
New Eng-
land.)
1679-
June 1.
DRUM-
CLOG .
Covenant-
ers defeat
Graham of
Claver-
house.
June 22.
BOTH-
WELL-
BRWOE.
Are defeated
by the duke
of Mon-
mouth.
(The beha-
viour of
LadyRussell
at her hus-
band's trial
was much
admired.)
16. What was the consequence of the treaty of Carlo witz ?
Chap. III. — 1 . How did Charles further offend the English ? What was
done by his brother ? What measures were taken by Charles to keep his
people in good humour ? What troubles arose in Scotland ? What account
can you give of Dr. Sharp — his murder and murderers? Who was sent
against the covenanters, and where were they defeated ?— 2. What party
and principles gained ground, and when? What conspiracy was detected,
and who was made the victim ?
382
HYPOCRISY AND TYRANNY.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. III.
1685.
James II.
Executions
of Mon-
mouth and
Argyle.
16S».
(Wm. Penn
founds Phil-
adelphia.)
throne, and assassinating the king. Charles pardoned the
offence. Algernon Sidney, an ornament to mankind, was ap-
prehended on a charge of high treason, for having been the
author of a treatise, in which he asserts that power is originally
in the people, and delegated by them to the parliament, to whom
the king is amenable. For these opinions, written, but not
published, did the infamous Jeffries, his judge, condemn to
death this friend of human rights, and " he rejoiced to die for
the good old cause."
3. Charles was succeeded by his brother, the duke of York,
under the title of James II. Assembling his council, he de-
clared his determination to maintain the established government
both in church and state. But his conduct in sending to make
submission to the pope — going in state to high mass, which by
act of parliament was an illegal assembly — levying taxes with-
out consent of parliament — and advancing catholics to office
while he displaced episcopalians, soon convinced the people of
the hollowness of his professions. Insurrections broke out;
one in Scotland, headed by the duke of Argyle, and another
in England, headed by the duke of Monmouth. Their forces
were defeated and scattered, and the leaders executed ; — Argyle
at Edinburgh, and Monmouth at London. But these successes,
instead of consolidating the power of the king, in consequence
of the bad measures which followed, had a contrary effect.
Military executions of the prisoners were frequent, and some-
times attended with circumstances of horrid cruelty* Jeffries,
who was chancellor of the kingdom, received from James a
special commission to try the rebels ; and to be tried by this
cruel and unjust judge, was to be condemned and executed.
4. By upholding such cruelties, the monarch made himself
hated by his people. At the same time he made great preten-
sions to zeal for religious toleration ; but it was because he
wished to bring forward the Catholics. William Penn, the
celebrated quaker, who had returned from the colony of Penn-
sylnania, which he had founded in North America, was much
in company with James ; his father, admiral Penn, having been
a personal friend of the king. Penn was deceived into a belief
that this bigot and tyrant had good designs respecting liberty
of conscience. But his intentions were manifestly to break
* After the battle of Sedgemoor, near Bridgewater, in which Monmouth
was defeated, lord Feversham, who commanded against him, ordered a num-
ber of the prisoners to be hanged without form of trial. Col. Kirk did the
same at Bridgewater, and when he saw their feet twitching, as they were
struggling in death, he ordered the band to play a lively tune, saying, " I
will give them music to their dancing."
2. What account can you give of "the Rye House Plot?" Give an
account of the the trial of Algernon Sidney ? — 3. Who succeeded Charles ?
What were his professions, and what his conduct ? What insurrections
broke out, and with what results? What measures followed, and how did
they affect the stability of James' power? What is said of Jeffries? — 4.
What is said of William Penn ? In what year did he found Philadelphia?
A WRONGED PEOPLE RIGHT THEMSELVES. 383
down the free portions of the English constitution, and bring- Mode™ His.
every thing into subjection to his own arbitrary will. To the peri'd iv.
New England states, who had been flourishing under their chap. in.
charters, derived at different times from the British crown, he v-* "~s^v*/
sent over his minion, that coxcomb of a tyrant, Sir Edmund rh(The
Andross, who took away the charters, and assumed absolute Connecticut
authority. To the clergy of the established church, the king bwJJi!rySw
became particularly obnoxious. He not only deprived them of in a vener-
privileges formerly granted them, but grossly insulted them as aSu^tTnd-
a body, by directing them to read in public his declaration of i"g at Hart-
equal indulgence to all religions ; a paper which contained mat- (Jainres also
ters contrary to their legal claims and declared opinions. The caused the
archbishop of Canterbury, and six bishops, met and drew up a sports" for
petition that the king would not oblige them to promulgate Sundays to
that, which by former acts of parliament was illegal. He not the church-
only refused to grant the petition, but committed the bishops to es,)
the tower, and prosecuted them for a libel.
5. The whole of the community, except a few office holders, Co?Oran™ee
now felt that the measure of tyranny and oppression was full ; was the
and that such a government could no longer be endured. Many 8chariesni°,
of the most considerable persons, both in church and state, Jlis mother
made secret applications to William, prince of Orange, who that king's5
had married Mary, eldest daughter of James. The tories and dau!Kr.\
whigs* united to request that he would undertake the defence
of the nation ; a proposal highly acceptable to William, who
had ever kept his eye upon the English throne. He sailed with
a fleet for England, and landed his army at Torbay without op-
position. The accessions to his party were so numerous and
rapid, that it seemed as if the whole realm were in the conspi-
racy. The army and navy deserted to him. James, after being
absent from his patace, returned to find that his favorite daughter
Anne had left him. " God help me," said the afflicted man,
" my very children have forsaken me !" He sent the queen and
prince of Wales to France, whither he followed himself, about
the time that William advanced to London.
6. A convention was summoned, and a vote passed, declaring 1688.
James to have broken the original compact between king and The Revo-
people ; and that, withdrawing from the kingdom, he had left wmiamand
the throne vacant. James was now dethroned, but William was Mary.
not king ; and in the arrangement of this affair, that prince
showed the soundness of his judgment. At first, the conven-
tion thought of making Mary the sovereign, and William regent;
* These terms were first used in the reign of Charles II., — the tory party
being those who maintained the prerogative of the crown, — and the whig,
those who advocated the rights of the people.
4. What was done in reference to the New England states ? How did
James offend the established clergy ? — 5. What had now become the
feeling of the community ? What was done to call in another person to
take the crown from James ? Give some account of the movements of
William. Of James. — 6. What was passed in the convention? What
ground did William take in regard to a divided authority ?
384
THE ENGLISH REVOLUTION.
Modern His-
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. III.
1689.
May 26.
KILLIE-
CRJiNKIE.
Dundee vic-
torious— is
slain.
1689.
July 1.
BOYNE.
William de-
feats James-
(Those who
adhered to
James are
properly
called Jaco-
bites.)
fAfter Wil-
liam's death
was found
tied to his
arm, a ring
containing
Mary's hair.)
but he sent them word that he would not accept of a power
which depended on the life of another ; and if they concluded
on this plan, he could render them no assistance. Mary se-
conded his views, and the prince and princess of Orange were
jointly declared king and queen of England. This event, called
in English history the Revolution, is one of the most singular
and important on record. It was accomplished almost without
bloodshed ; and in its course the principle was acknowledged,
that the people had by their representatives a right to elect
their sovereign. No king could thenceforth assume, as their
former princes had done, that the whole kingdom was his ; he
deriving from God, and the people from him. This relic of the
feudal system was, in England, left behind, when James, for
his attempts upon English constitutional liberty, was ejected ;
and William of Orange, by the pleasure of the nation, was
made king.
7. In Scotland a powerful party held out for James, headed
by viscount Dundee. At Killiecrankie, this brave and popular
chieftain gave battle to the forces of William, under Mack ay,
and obtained a victory, but fatally for the cause of James, he
fell in the engagement. James, on his flight from England, had
been hospitably received by Louis XIV., and lodged at St. Ger-
main en Laye. Having now collected a few hundred of his
own subjects, and some French officers, he embarked for Ire-
land. The earl of Tyrconnel, who commanded there, re-
maining faithful to his interests, had assembled an army of
40,000 men. James was received with enthusiasm, and entered
Dublin amidst acclamations. The Irish protestants, howevei,
resisted with intrepidity, though at times reduced to the utmost
distress. William, who for a time had been compelled by the
disputes which agitated the English parliament, to leave the
Irish war to his lieutenants, now proceeded to that kingdom in
person. A battle was fought on the banks of the Boyne, in
which the monarchs were each at the head of their respective
armies. Victory declared in favor of William ; James again
fled to France, and Ireland soon after submitted to the power
of the conqueror.
8. Though the reign of William was often disturbed by the
Jacobites, yet the majority of the nation supported him in
his measures. While he was personally engaged in the conti-
nental wars, Mary, whose manners were popular, exercised with
ability the office of regent, although, when her husband was in
England, she was the most submissive of his subjects. Her
death was deeply lamented by him, and by the people. Wil-
liam died at Kensington, by a fall from his horse. This
monarch ruled with ability, yet not well. Ambition was in his
6. What is this event called in English history ? Why is it singular and
important? — T. What disturbance occurred in Scotland? What in Ire-
land ? Relate the battle of the Boyne ? — 8. What circumstances are
mentioned of the life and death of William and Mary ?
ENGLISH NATIONAL DEBT BEGINS. 385
heart; and this was not modified as it should have been, by a Modern His-
regard to the good of mankind, and especially to that of the perfd iv.
people whom he governed. He determined so to sway the po- chap. m.
litics of Europe, " that not a gun should be fired without his con- -^^v^x-/
sent." Hence he augmented the disturbances on the continent, wmuuri be-
sent forth his armies to shed the blood of distant unoffending tionai debt
people ; and to maintain these armies, he commenced the system }m2 wnifl.
of borrowing money, which has in its consequences, accumulated nentaiwars.
the enormous national debt that has brought England to the
verge of destruction.
9. In America " King William's War" reached the people of 1690.
New England, where the French and Indians from Canada, Schenet-
came stealthily upon them — roused their slumbers by the war- ojhe/'pHaVes
whoop, and waked them to behold their infants dashed against destr°yed-
the wall, and their dwellings in flames ; — themselves reserved for
scalping and tortures. Thus were surprised, Schenectady, in of warfare
New York, Salmon-Falls in New Hampshire, and Casco in ln Amerlca-
Maine. Tn American legislation, some of the measures of
William III. showed that he believed the free institutions
of that country were tending to independence, and that he
endeavored to bar their way. Puritan New England had re-
joiced in his accession, and he recalled their petty tyrants, and
suffered the smaller states to go quietly back to their charter
democracies; but to the people of Massachusetts, the larger (Sophia was
and leading state, who had shown the most determined self- ^gj
will, William would not restore their former privileges, but b'eth,d. of
compelled them to receive, with a new charter, royal governors. a„d tie3 un-
Disputes between these governors and their constituents began fortunate
at once, which were never settled but at the war of the Ameri- claim* of an
can revolution. To carry his measures in parliament, William ^e^l™*1
resorted to the dishonorable and demoralizing plan of bribing the aside be-
members of that body and other persons of influence, both at caw3(frehey
home and abroad. During his reign, " an Act of Settlement" papists.)
was passed, notwithstanding the opposition of the Jacobite
party, which secured the crown of England to Sophia, duchess
dowager of Hanover, and her descendants ; they being protest-
ants. William was succeeded by Anne, (married to George, 1^91.
prince of Denmark,) sister of Mary, and second daughter of Anne suc-
James II. She continued the alliance with the house of Austria ; cf^ ™~
and it was during her reign that the victories of the duke of
Marlborough reflected such lustre on the British arms.
8. What is remarked concerning the reign of this monarch ? What bad
system did he commence ? — 9. How and where did the effect of his wars
reach America ? What did he comprehend respecting the American insti-
tutions ? How did he proceed with them ? What demoralizing plan did he
adopt in order to carry his measures in parliament ? Give an account of the
" Act of Settlement." Who was the princess Sophia? (See note.)
49
CHAPTER IV.
Europe. — Thirteen year's War of the Spanish Succession.
Modern His.
PERID IV.
CHAP. IV.
Treaty of
Partition.
(William
111. of Eng-
land the soul
of this
league.)
1698.
Second
Treaty of
Partition.
i?oo.
Charles
II.
leaves
his
crown
to Philip
V. a
Bour-
bon.
1. The peace of Ryswick had scarcely composed hostilities
between the European powers, when jarring- claims and in-
trigues, concerning the succession to the Spanish crown arose,
which eventually produced war. Charles II., the reigning mo-
narch of Spain, had no children ; and the feeble state of his
health gave reason to expect the immediate vacancy of the
throne. Louis XIV., the emperor Leopold, and the elector of
Bavaria, each possessed claims to the succession on account of
descent in the maternal line from the royal family of Spain. The
balance of power in Europe it was said, required that neither
the house of Austria, nor that of Bourbon, should obtain such
an accession of strength, as the acquisition of the Spanish mo-
narchy would give. A treaty of partition ivas therefore formed
by England, France, and Holland, dividing the territories of
the Spanish monarchy among the different claimants. This
treaty, which the framers designed to preserve secret, became
known in Spain, and justly displeased both the king and the
nation. Charles immediately made a will, excluding both the
house of Bourbon and that of Austria, and bequeathing his
crown, with all the Spanish possessions, to the elector of Bava-
ria. The death of the elector, which occurred soon after, again
renewed the intrigues of Louis and Leopold. The king of Eng-
land continued to interest himself in the negotiations, and a se-
cond treaty ivas formed between England, France, and Holland,
by which a new partition of the Spanish dominions was made.
To this partition also, the emperor refused to accede.
2. The intrigues of the clergy, and the influence of the pope,
whom Charles consulted, and who feared for his own territo-
ries, in case of a union between Spain and Austria, drew Charles
from the Austrian interest, and induced him to make a secret
will, in which Philip, duke of Anjou, second son of the dau-
phin, was declared his heir. The death of Charles, and the
publication of this will, caused a powerful sensation throughout
Europe. The desire of aggrandizing his family, at length over-
came every other consideration in the mind of Louis. He ac-
cepted the will, and conveyed the duke of Anjou, his grandson,
to Madrid, where he was crowned as Philip V.
3. England and Holland, though highly dissatisfied by the
Chap. IV. — 1. What dispute now arose? What three claimants were
there to the Spanish succession ? What partition treaty was made ? Does
it not seem very wrong for nations to interfere in this manner with the in-
ternal concerns of other nations ? What effect did the knowledge of this
treaty produce in Spain ? What left the way again open to the intrigues of
Louis XIV. and the emperor Leopold ? What new league was made ? — 2.
How did Charles II. of Spain finally leave the succession, and what fol-
lowed ? 386
WAR OP THE SPANISH SUCCESSION BEGINS. 387
want of faith which Louis had displayed, did not consider it for Moder* His.
their interest to engage in war, and reluctantly acknowledged peri'div.
the title of Philip ; but the emperor of Germany prepared for CHAP- IV-
immediate hostilities, and despatched an army under prince Eu- ^-"^'v^w'
gene into Italy, to enforce his claim to Milan. Here, through The nations,
the treachery of the duke of Savoy, who pretended to be in the emany, ac-~
French interest, the imperialists obtained repeated advantages, ffp^suc^es-
and made themselves masters of the country between the Adige «'on-
and the Adda.
4. During this time, England and Holland were attempting
to negotiate with France, and produce an amicable adjustment
of the Spanish claims. All efforts proving vain, they entered
into a treaty with the emperor of Germany, called the " Grand rm,p
Alliance," whose objects were to prevent the union of the «pranfj
French and Spanish monarchies, to procure for the emperor the /m;al|Pn »
Spanish possessions in Italy ; to recover Flanders as a barrier to
Holland, and to secure the English and Dutch commerce. On
the death of James II., which occurred at this time, at St. Ger- James, the
main, Louis acknowledged his son as king of England, and gave n" thS/SS
him the title of James III. William at once recalled his am- Flt*eidZ\
bassador from France, and his subjects seconded with ardor his the cheva-
preparations for war. In the midst of them, William died ; but ^Jr2;')
Anne, who succeeded to the English throne, continued the
same measures of foreign policy. England, Holland, and the 1702*
German empire declared war against France on the same day. ^[Sl^Se-
The German princes generally were in the league. Frederic, ciare war
the elector of Brandenburgh, had been won by receiving France1.
from the emperor the title of king of Prussia. This is the
first acknowledgment of Prussia as a kingdom.
5. During the first campaign, operations were not on a great
scale. In Italy, and on the Upper Rhine, the French arms
were successful ; but in Flanders, the allies, commanded by the
duke of Marlborough, make themselves masters of several
places. Their naval operations, also, were fortunate. A French
fleet, which had just arrived in the harbor of Vigo, having in English and
charge an immense treasure which it had brought from America, Dutch caP-
™ tUF6 3.
was attacked by the English and Dutch, the vessels captured or Frencnfleet.
destroyed, and a great amount of wealth taken. The king of
Portugal and the duke of Savoy now openly espoused the inter-
ests of the Grand Alliance.
6. In the second campaign Louis exerted himself to the ut-
most ; and the electors of Bavaria and Cologne, engaged with zeal 1?03.
in his cause. The former carried on the war in Germany, and stadt.
in union with mareschal Villars, the French commander, ob- ^p^Jl
tained a victory over the imperialists on the plains of Hoch- allies.
3. What course was taken by the nations in reference to the accession of
the Bourbon prince to the Spanish throne ? — 1. Between what nations was
the Grand Alliance formed ? What were its objects? What event has-
tened the war ? What change of sovereigns occurred in England ? What
nations were now united against France ? — 5. Give the principal events of
the first campaign ? What year was this? — 6. Tell the year and the events
of the second campaign ?
388
MARLBOROUGH AND EUGENE.
Modern His.
1704.
The third
campaign
(Duke of
xMarlbo-
rough, the
most suc-
cessful of
English
comman-
ders.)
BLEN-
HEIM.
Marlbo-
rough and
Eugene
victorious.
Loss of the
enemv
40,000, with
all their
artillery and
stores. Eng.
loss 500 k.,
1705.
The fourth
campaign.
Joseph,
emperor of
Germany.
stadt. In Alsace and Italy, also, the French arms were success-
ful. In the Netherlands, the tide of fortune changed, and the
arms of Marlborough triumphed ; yet the general result of the
campaign was favorable to Louis.
7. The following year Marlborough was early in the field,
having planned with care and secrecy to relieve the emperor,
whose capital was threatened on the one hand by the Hunga-
rians, who were in a state of revolt ; and on the other, by the
French and Bavarians, whose successes in the preceding cam-
paign had put them in possession of Augsburg, and opened the
road to Vienna. He designed to march into Germany, and de-
ceiving the French by a feint, succeeded in crossing the Rhine,
the Maine, and the Neckar. Having united with the imperial-
ists under the prince of Baden, he compelled the elector of Ba*
varia to retreat from Donawert, which he took.
8. Soon after this, prince Eugene united his army to that of
Marlborough, and a great battle was fought between the allies,
and the French and Bavarians, near the village of Blenheim.
The hostile armies were nearly equal in strength, each number-
ing about 80,000 men ; but the superior military skill of Marl-
borough and Eugene, gave them the victory. This success
relieved the emperor, and put the allies in possession of the
country from the Danube to the Rhine. The conquerors fol-
lowed up this blow by recrossing the Rhine, and obtaining pos-
session of some important places in Alsace. At sea, the confe-
derate fleets of the English and Dutch attacked Gibraltar, and
the English seamen made themselves masters of that almost im-
pregnable fortress. The operations of the French, however,
were successful in other quarters. In Italy their arms triumphed;
and also in Portugal, where the war on the part of the allies
was conducted by the archduke Charles, who had assumed
the title of king of Spain.
9. The ensuing spring, Louis had an army of 70,000 men,
under mareschal Villars, in readiness to oppose the duke of
Marlborough, who was thus prevented from penetrating into
France. The most important events of this campaign were
transacted in Spain, where the arms of the confederates met with
signal success. The principal places in the province of Estre-
madura were reduced; — nearly the whole territory of Va-
lencia, and the province of Catalonia, submitted to the arch-
duke. The death of the emperor Leopold, which occurred this
year, placed his son Joseph upon the imperial throne, but did
not affect the policy of the court.
10. In the next campaign, Marlborough, at the head of the
English and Dutch, obtained at Ramillies an important victory
over the French, under mareschal Villeroy. This victory en-
T. The year and events of the third campaign to the battle of Blenheim.
—8. Relate that battle ? What important acquisition was made by the
English on the Mediterranean ? Where had the French been successful ? —
9. Detail the principal military events of the fourth campaign, or that of 1705?
What change of sovereigns occurred ? — lO. Relate the battle of Ramillies?
FRANCE EXHAUSTED BY THE WAR. 389
abled Marlborough to conquer Brabant, and almost all Span- JiIodern His,
ish Flanders. The duke of Vendome was recalled from perud iv.
Italy to oppose Marlborough. Prince Eugene had already CHAP- 1V-
crossed the Po, and carried on a successful warfare in that ^~v~*w
quarter. Joining the duke of Savoy, their united armies at- 1¥06.
tacked the French before Turin, and completely routed them. TteduETof
In Spain, also, victory declared for the confederates. Philip Savoy and
was obliged to leave Madrid, which the English and Portuguese UfSthee"
entered. Charles, the archduke of Austria, was declared French.
king, under the title of Charles III., but did not himself ad-
vance to Madrid. Philip collected another army, and recover-
ed his capital.
11. Louis XIV. now perceiving the distress to which his ifOY-
great expenditures were reducing his kingdom, made proposals sixth cam-
of peace to the other powers, which, chiefly through the ambi- paign'
tion of Marlborough and Eugene, were rejected. The war there-
fore continued, and Louis, though greatly embarrassed, prepared
to carry it on with vigor. Several armies were collected, and
reinforcements sent into Spain. In Italy, continued misfortune
attended the French and Spaniards ; the whole kingdom of Na-
ples urns reduced by the allies, and the territory of the duke of
Savoy entirely recovered. Here, however, the success of the
allies, for this campaign, ended. In Flanders, the duke of Ven-
dome prevented Marlborough from performing anything of im-
portance. In Germany, mareschal Villars had obtained consi-
derable success, and penetrated to the Danube. The Hunga- ALMAtN>
rians continued to distress the empire. In Spain, the confede- za.
rates met with a memorable defeat at Almanza, where the Be^ck°fat
duke of Berwick commanded the French and Spanish. After the head of
this, the French and Spaniards, under this able commander, ^nd French!
recovered the whole kingdom of Valencia for Philip. An at- defeats the
tempt of prince Eugene and the duke of Savoy upon Toulon, (Duke of
was successfully repulsed by the French. The advantages of ^{^aTson
this campaign were mainly on the side of France. of James ii)
12. During the next year, the English were roused to more
vigorous exertions, by an attempt of Louis to convey the pre-
tender, James III., to Scotland, but the vigilance of admiral j^OS.
Byng prevented his landing. Marlborough was now in Flan- Seventh
ders. At Oudenarde, a battle was fought between the forces c^JJJ,j£fJ!'
under him, and the French army under the duke of Vendome, narde.
where again the confederates were victorious. Soon after r0ugrh Se-
this, prince Eugene took the city of Lisle, which he had be- feJ\ts ven-
sieged two months. Ghent and Bruges, of which the duke of
Vendome had obtained possession in the early part of the cam-
IO, Relate the course of the victors — the circumstances of the next bat-
tle. What occurred in Spain ? — 1 1 . In the sixth campaign what successes
had the allies ? What the French and Spanish ? In the beginning of
the campaign what did the king of France desire ? Which side had on the
whole the advantage? — 12. What attempt was made by Louis XIV.?
Relate the battle of Oudenarde. The remaining transactions of the cam-
paign.
390
WAR OF THE SPANISH SUCCESSION CONTINUES.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. IV.
MOWS.
Marlbo-
rough and
Eugene ob-
tain a hard
fought field
fromVlllars.
1710.
Ninth cam-
JlLMEMA-
RA.
Charles de-
feats Philip.
1711.
Charles em-
peror of
Germany.
paign, were now recovered by the confederates. At sea, they
acquired the command of the Mediterranean, and achieved the
conquest of Sardinia and Minorca.
13. Louis again made liberal proposals of peace, which were
again rejected. Not only were his armies unfortunate, but his
subjects were suffering under a grievous famine, and his finances
exhausted. This monarch, by his regal munificence, and his
imposing qualities of person and character, was the idol of his
subjects, to whom they willingly sacrificed their blood and
treasure. By his patronage of literature, he had the talents and
genius of France in his interest. Hence, when the rejection of
a proffered peace left him no hope but in the successful prose-
secution of the war, France aroused to new and extensive
preparations. To mareschal Villars, he gave the command of
his armies in Flanders, where Marlborough and Eugene acted
in concert with a force of 100,000 men. The confederates
having reduced Tournay, besieged Mons. Villars encamped his
army a short distance from that city, where he was attacked by
Marlborough and Eugene, and after a fierce and long-contested
battle, he was compelled to retreat from the field, and abandon
Mons to the allies ; yet he could hardly be said to have lost
the victory, since the number of slain in the army of the con-
federates, was double that on the side of the French. Villars
held them in check, and prevented their entering France, or
gaining any other important advantage. At the close of this
campaign, the French king renewed his solicitations for peace,
and negotiations to that effect commenced at Gertruydenberg.
Louis was willing to make ample concessions ; but the demands
of the allies were so exorbitant, as to preclude all hope of re-
conciliation, and the negotiations were broken off.
14. In Flanders, several places of importance surrendered to
the allies. In Spain, a battle was fought at Almenara, in which
the two competitors for the crown, Philip and the archduke
Charles, appeared at the head of their respective forces. The
contest was decided in favor of Charles, and Philip was again
compelled to flee from Madrid, of which Charles took posses-
sion. The Spaniards, however, continued faithful to Philip's
cause, and the duke of Vendome, who received the command
of tlte French in that quarter, soon retrieved their affairs, and
recovered Madrid.
15. About this period, two events took place, which tended to
produce a cessation of hostilities. The emperor Joseph dying,
his brother, the archduke Charles was raised to the imperial
dignity; and as it was inconsistent with the avowed object of
the Grand Alliance, to permit the throne of two nations to be
occupied by one monarch, Charles was now considered as dis-
qualified for the throne of Spain. A change had been effected
13. What remarks are here made concerning Louis XIV. ? Relate the
battle of Mons, with its consequences. What was done concerning nego-
tiations for peace ? — 14. Relate the principal events of the ninth campaign.
—15. From what two events was peace expected ?
WAR OF THE SPANISH SUCCESSION CLOSED.
391
in the British ministry, by which the tories had acquired the
ascendency in the court of Anne, and a change of measures
might speedily be expected. Marlborough was indeed conti-
nued in office, but it was evident that his influence was on the
decline. Negotiations were the next year entered into between
the English and French courts ; Marlborough was recalled and
dismissed from his offices.
16. Conferences were opened at Utrecht, and treaties of peace
were signed by all the belligerent powers, except the emperor
and the king of Spain. By the terms of these treaties, Philip
V. was secured on the throne of Spain, on condition of his re-
nouncing, for himself and descendants, all claim upon the
crown of France. The heirs of the French monarchy were
also to renounce all claim upon that of Spain, so that the two
kingdoms should in no case be united. Sicily was given to the
duke of Savoy, in addition to his hereditary dominions. The
Italian possessions of Spain and the Netherlands, were relin-
quished to the house of Austria. The Rhine was to be the es-
tablished boundary between Germany and France. The right
to both sides of the river Amazon in America, was confirmed
to the king of Portugal. The title of Anne to the throne of
England, and the eventual succession of the family of Hanover
to that throne, was to be acknowledged by France. Gibraltar
and Minorca were to remain in possession of the English.
Hudson's bay and straits, the town of Placentia in Newfound-
land, Nova Scotia, in North America, and the island of St.
Christopher in the West Indies, were also to be ceded to that
government by France. Luxembourg, Namur, and Charleroy,
were given to the United Provinces ; and Lisle, Aire, Bethune,
and St. Vincent were restored to France.
17. As the emperor refused his assent to the treaty, the war
between the empire and France continued. Turning all their
strength against Germany, the French were now successful in
their operations, and the following year, Charles VI. was forced
to conclude a peace at Rastadt, on less favorable terms than had
been offered him at Utrecht. In New England the French and
savages made destructive night attacks. The settlers never
retired to their rest free from fear; for when the Indians came,
they started up like a satanic creation of the night ; — did their
deadly errand and were gone. Thus, in the depth of winter,
was Deerfleld surprised by a party of French and Indians, under
Huertel de Rouville, a Frenchman; and the whole settle-
ment destroyed.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. IV.
Peace of
Utrecht.
(The Eng-
lish, as a pre-
liminary,
agreed to
give the
queen dow-
ager of
James II. an
annual al-
lowance of
£60,000.)
(England
received
from Spain
the privilege
of furnish-
ing the
Spanish
West Indies
4,800 negro
slaves a
year.)
1*14.
Peace of
Queen
Anne's war
in New
England.
Midnight
raids of the
French and
Indians.
1704.
Deerfleld
destroyed,
47 killed,
180 made
captives.
16. (Examine the maps in learning the conditions of the important treaty
of Utrecht.) What conditions were made by the Spanish and French Bour-
bons ? What part of the Spanish possessions were given to Germany ?
Of what was the Rhine to be the boundary ? What condition respecting
the English throne was made ? What accession of territory did England
receive ? What was confirmed ? What did Holland gain ?— IT. Between
what powers was the treaty of Rastadt? How did " Queen Anne's war,"
as it was called in America, affect the American provinces ?
CHAPTER V.
Poland, Russia, and China.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. V.
T1462
I Ivan I.
the
I Great.
(tJohn
Basilo-
witz.)
(Nearly
200
years
the Rus-
sians
under
tribute
to the
khan of
Khapt-
shak.)
1 . POLAND. — Sigismund II., dying without issue, the throne
was afterwards disposed of by the nobles, who held their elec-
tions in the open air, armed and on horseback. The principle
that the majority must govern, was repudiated by them; and to
make the election unanimous, the majority often fell upon the
minority and slew them with their swords. Seldom agreeing on
one of their own number, they, with a policy suicidal to their
country, offered their crown to foreign princes, who hence
learned to interfere with the affairs of Poland. John Sobieski,
the hero of Polish history, was, however, a native Polander ; and
was made king after he had defeated the Turks in the great bat-
tle of Choczim. He had before risen by his public services to be
grand marshal of Poland, and palatine of Cracovia. After his elec-
tion, he marched to the relief of the emperor of Germany, the
Turks having besieged his capital. He compelled them to raise
the siege of Vienna, and to flee with precipitation. By stopping
the progress of the Mahometans, he merited the title of a second
Charles Martel. On the death of Sobieski, the Polish electors
chose as their king, Frederic Augustus, elector of Saxony.
2. RUSSIA. — The greatness of Russia began, 1482, with
Ivan VASiLOVicH,|of the family of Ruric. Up to this period
many petty chiefs, of different degrees of authority, ruled the
different parts of those vast regions. Ivan had, physically, the
size and strength of a giant, with ambition and mental energy
in proportion, and he centralized the power of Russia, by sub-
jugating contiguous provinces. Since the time when the de-
scendants of Jenghiz Khan overran the country, the Russians
had been under the galling yoke of the " Tartars of the Golden
Horde." In 1395 Tamerlane had devastated the country
from Azof to Moscow. The Russians after this were under
tribute to the horde of Khaptshak. These Tartars quarrelled
and divided into four portions, — the Tartars of Crimea, of
Khasan, of Astrachan, and of Siberia. Ivan took advantage of
their disunion, refused the tribute, and made war upon the
Tartars. He was naturally ferocious in temper ; but his cha-
racter was modified by that of his wife, an accomplished
Greek princess, Sophia, niece of Constantine, the last empe-
Chap. V. — 1. What ideas had the Polish electors respecting majori-
ties? What was their manner of holding an election? What bad prac-
tice did they fall into respecting foreigners, and what was its consequence ?
Give an account of John Sobieski ? Who was chosen to succeed him ? —
'Z. With whom did the greatness of Russia begin ? What had been
the state of the Russians in respect to government ? Give an account of
Ivan the Great. Of the Tartars, and their irruptions ? To what khan were
the Russians under tribute ? How had they divided ? What did Ivan ? By
whom was his character modified ?
392
FORMATION OF THE RUSSIAN EMPIRE. 393
ror of Constantinople. By this connexion he took the title of Mode™ ms.
Czar, (Caesar,) and claimed the throne of the ancient Greek em- perpd iv.
pire. He fortified the Kremlin or citadel of Moscow ; and by chap. v.
severe despotism at home, and successful war abroad, he ef- v*^-v~,w
fected the consolidation of the Russian power.
3. Ivan IV., (the Terrible,) formed a military guard, called
$£re/itees,(shooters,)which were the first regular Russian army. 1546
This sovereign conquered the Tartars of Khasan and Astrachan, Ivan IV> *
reduced the khan of Siberia to tribute, and subjected the Don Somes a
Cossacks. Afterwards, the Swedes warred upon him, and he sanguinary
made peace by relinquishing Carelia and Ingria, and all the
Russian possessions on the Baltic. After his death occurred a
period of anarchy within, and the ingress of hordes of Tartars m. Ro-
from without. At length the Russians with one accord rose up, ^jS
and rejecting the competitors of the Ruric family, elevated to l to
the throne, Michael Romanoff. He restored peace, and re- 1645.
claimed some of the alienated provinces. He was succeeded by
his son Alexis, a wise and powerful sovereign. He reduced the
Cossacks of the Ukraine. By his direction the laws of Russia 3^45
were revised. He mingled in the politics of Europe, sending to
ministers to France and Spain, but refusing to receive an am- 16'76.
bassador from Oliver Cromwell.
4. Alexis was succeeded by his eldest son Theodore II. On -jg^g
the death of this sickly prince, Ivan and Peter, two young to
sons of Alexis were declared ; but their sister, Sophia, by the 1682.
force of her talents, and ambitious intriguing mind, had made dor/ii.,
herself the virtual head of the nation; notwithstanding the laws weakly.
of Russia which doomed her, as an unmarried daughter of the aiJp".
Czar, to perpetual confinement in a convent. She managed to ter, 10
get the control of the strelitzes; and made a powerful Boyar, y^s
(Russian nobleman,) prince Gallitzin, head of her party.
Ivan was feeble of mind and body, and Sophia had no difficulty
in ruling him ; but Peter, though but a boy, manifested so much J ?•
decision and energy of character, that she is said, not only to his sis-
have neglected his education, but purposely to have put him in {JJkuIiu"
the way of criminal pleasures, that he might thus ruin his mental More
and physical constitution ; but divine Providence suffered it not ^Jjjj
to be. By the help of the strelitzes Sophia afterwards con- good-
spired against his life. He escaped, and received the undivided
sovereignty ; while she was imprisoned in a convent. Peter, peter
after taking a terrible vengeance on the conspirators, set himself alone.
to the task of ruling well the vast country which he had inhe- 1689.
rited. Indeed the desire to improve and civilize his people, and
procure for Russia the advantages of commerce and navigation,
%. What title did he take ? What is farther related of Ivan Vasilovich ?
— 3. What is related of Ivan the Terrible ? What occurred after his death ?
Give an account of Michael Romanoff. Was he the founder of a new dy-
nasty ? Give an account of his successor. — 4-. In what order did the sons
of Alexis succeed him ? Give an account of Sophia ? What was her con-
duct towards Peter ? A conspiracy is related with its results — what were
they ? What became the ruling passion of Peter ?
50
394
LE FORT OF GENEVA.
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. V.
The be-
ginning
of a
great
army.
(The knout
somewhat
resembles
the cat-o'-
nine-tails,
but is far
more se-
vere.)
became the ruling impulse of one of the most laborious lives on
record.
•5. In the suite of the Danish ambassador was a young man,
elegant in appearance, but modest and retiring. Peter invited
him to enter his service, but Le Fort said he owed gratitude
to the Danish ambassador for aiding him in his necessities, and
he was useful to him ; he therefore declined so much as asking
his benefactor to part with him. Peter, struck with his self-sa-
crificing faithfulness, asked the ambassador himself; and he was
delighted with the prospect of greatness, which Peter's favor
opened before this young Genevese. Peter made him his in-
structor and friend, and eagerly listened to his accounts of the
more civilized nations of the south. He asked Le Fort's opin-
ion of his troops. " They are," said Le Fort, " well-made
men, but neither their dress or discipline fit them for action."
Peter desired to see the military costume of the south. In two
days Le Fort appeared before him in the German uniform.
Peter was delighted, and wished a company to be dressed in
the same manner. Le Fort selected fifty of the tallest and most
symmetrical of the strelitzes, and before the Czar believed it
possible, they were paraded in full uniform, practising their
newly learned evolutions beneath his window. Peter, to show
his young nobility an example, himself enlisted in this com-
pany,— and here began his military career, by faithfully perform-
ing service as a drummer.
6. In favoring and increasing this new corps, Peter had in
view to supplant the dangerous strelitzes. He had foreign offi-
cers in his service, especially the two Scottish Gordons, but
he wished for more. " Your majesty," said Le Fort, " cannot
command such services, because your finances are in no better
condition than your army ; your impost duties are so high, that
the merchants practise frauds to get rid of paying them." On
this, Peter changed the ten per cent, duties to five, made strict
regulations against smugglers, and his receipts were soon
doubled. Peter exercised at times the most barbarous severities.
With his own hand he sometimes knouted, and sometimes de-
capitated offenders. Without severity he could not have main-
tained his authority; but he was subject to fits of ungovernable
rage. Le Fort, moved with pity, would offer his own bared
shoulders for the cruel knout, or his head for the block ; then
Peter would frequently relent and spare the offender.
7. The want of shipping and seaports occupied the czar's mind.
He began to learn the construction and management of vessels
from a small one which he procured to be built on lake Peipus.
He then took the extraordinary resolution to go to Holland and
learn ship-building. But when he declared his intention of go-
5. Relate Peter's first acquaintance with Le Fort ? What happened be-
tween them in relation to the military ? What example did Peter set to his
young nobility ? — 6. What occurred in respect to the finances ? How did
Le Fort save the lives of many Russians? — T. What subject occupied the
Czar, and what did he begin to learn ?
PETER OF RUSSIA IN HOLLAND. 395
ing abroad, the Russian clergy, already much scandalized be- Modern ms.
cause their monarch had impiously, as they contended, planned perpd iv.
a canal, thus setting up to make a river where the Almighty had chap. v.
made none, now again were shocked at the idea of a Russian, ^^-v*^
and a Russian sovereign, leaving that first of lands to go and (At this time
abide in another. They formed a conspiracy, in which Sophia Jected™"
again figured. Peter detected it, and punished the conspirators canal.)
in a shocking manner. He then not only went abroad, but (Sophiawas
compelled large numbers of the young nobility to go also, that not' how~
they might bring home improved customs. eVdeath.)
8. Passing through Riga and Hamburg, Peter went to Amster-
dam, travelling as a private man in the suite of Le Fort, who went Ma
in the character of ambassador. Here, sternly refusing to be Peter sets
made a show of, to amuse the idle, he put on the clothes of outtotravel-
a common laborer, used the ship-builders adze, and insisted
on being treated like his fellow laborers. " Peter Roma-
nofK" said the master of the yard, "why do you sit there?
help to carry that log," and Peter put his shoulder beneath it. A ki at
When the time for paying the men came, Peter took his wages, work. He
and once he bought a pair of shoes ; and showing them after- pleasure of
wards, " These," said he, " 1 purchased by my own labor." using his
After he had learned ship-building, he passed over to England, °Win|sarn"
and was suffered, by William 111., to take his own way in visiting
such objects as he could turn to the improvement of his people.
While there, William Penn, who had already founded Pennsyl-
vania, visited, and made for himself and the sect of quakers a 1698.
very favorable impression on the mind of the Czar. Peter was e^Yon.
called home by an insurrection of the strelitzes, which was,
however, quelled by General Gordon. The dreadful execution (JahyesnMott"'
and destruction of this corps signalized his return to Moscow, ley, gave Le
He then began to force the people to put in practice what he character:
had learned abroad ; — correcting the dress, manners, and laws ^Pj^Jt-
of the Russians. Le Fort assisted him; but in the midst of his ed, humane,
usefulness he died. Peter mourned and wept aloud, — calling jgfn'esr°0buesr,'
on him by the names of father and friend: and making for and^
him the most sumptuous burial which Russia had ever wit-
nessed.
9. Peter now turned a covetous eye upon the provinces
which Russia had once owned upon the Baltic, but ceded to
Sweden. Charles XII., at the age of fifteen, had succeeded
his father, Charles XL, in that monarchy; and not only Peter,
but other surrounding sovereigns had believed that this would tnlSnora?
be a favorable moment for grasping its possessions. Peter purpose,
leagued against Sweden with Frederic IV., the reigning sove-
T. What resolution did he take? What causes of disaffection did the
Russian clergy avow, and what did they attempt ? What did Peter ? — 8.
How did he travel ? Describe Peter's behavior at Amsterdam. Where
did he then go, and how was he treated by the king ? How did he like
William Penn? How was he called home, and what happened on his re-
turn? What did Le Fort and he do? What then occurred? — 9. What
did Peter now covet, and why did he and the neighboring kings think it
would be a good time to get what belonged to another country ?
396
CHARLES XII. OP SWEDEN.
Modem His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. V.
1700.
Charles
makes
peace with
the Danes-
itoi.
NJ1RVA.
Charles XII
defeats the
army of
Peter.
(Peter was
not yet,
however,
nominally a
general.)
1?©2.
JVear the
D WINA.
Charles XII-
defeats Au-
gustus.
GLISSAU.
Charles XII-
defeats Au-
gustus.
(The Poles
here desert
the Saxons-)
reign of Denmark, and Augustus of Saxony, now raised to the
throne of Poland. While Peter desired some of the provinces
of Charles which would give him a port on the Baltic, Augus-
tus wished to obtain Swedish Livonia; and Frederic IV. of
Denmark, had a grudge against Charles of Sweden, on account
of his taking part with his enemy, the duke of Holstein Got-
torp. The Danes invaded the territories of the duke, who was
brother-in-law to Charles, and who was vigorously supported
not only by him, but also by the English and Dutch, with whom
he had formed an alliance. Charles carried the war into Den-
mark, and besieged Copenhagen. The Danish king, reduced
to great distress, obtained the mediation of England and France,
and a peace was concluded between Denmark and Sweden,
highly honorable to the latter.
10. In the meantime, the Russians had commenced hostilities,
and laid siege to Narva. Charles now advanced to the defence
of that part of his kingdom, and although the Russian army
numbered 80,000 men, he, with 8,000, attacked their camp, de-
feated them, and relieved Narva. Peter, who was not in the
battle, but was at the head of another army of 40,000 men,
after learning the result, retired to his own dominions, exclaim-
ing, " I knew that the Swedes would beat us, but in time they
will teach us to beat them." In the meantime, Augustus had
invaded Livonia, and laid siege to Riga. After the victory at
Narva, the season was too far advanced to permit Charles to
carry his arms against Augustus, but early in the ensuing spring
he appeared in the field against the Poles and Saxons. The
army of Augustus was stationed on the banks of the Dwina,
where Charles, after forcing the passage of the river, encoun-
tered them, and obtained a complete victory. With rapid strides
he then marched through Courland and Lithuania. At Birsen,
the town in which Peter and Augustus, a few months previ-
ously, had planned his destruction, he now formed the resolu-
tion to dethrone the king of Poland. Augustus governed the
Poles with the same arbitrary sway which he had been accus-
tomed to exercise over his Saxon subjects, and the nobles who
elected him were chafed and indignant ; and Charles perempto-
rily declared he would never grant them peace until they chose
a new sovereign.
11. The hostile monarchs met at Glissau, and the heroic
Swede, though with but half the number of troops, defeated the
king of Poland. Cracow surrendered, but Charles being wounded
by a fall from his horse, a few weeks were thereby afforded
Augustus to rally his supporters. Charles being now recovered,
9. What three powers leagued against Sweden ? What two were aiding
Charles XII. ? What did Charles in respect to the Danes?— lO. What
happened at Narva ? Where was the czar Peter, and how affected by the
defeat of his army ? What had been done by the king of Poland ? How
was he met by the king of Sweden ? What resolution was made by
Charles ? How did a portion of the Poles stand affected to Augustus? —
11. Relate the battle of Glissau.
PETER THE GREAT. 397
marched against the remains of the Saxon army which had Modern m$.
been defeated at Glissau, dispersed them, and then proceeded to PERI»D IV
invest Thorn, whither Augustus had retired. He escaped, and
fled to Saxony. Charles assembled a diet at Warsaw, which,
under his influence, deposed Augustus, and elevated Stanis-
laus Leczinski, an accomplished Polander of noble birth.
Augustus received supplies of Russian troops, and he had still
adherents who joined his standard; but Charles and Stanislaus
obtained repeated victories over separate bands of the Russians,
and at length drove them from Poland. Charles penetrated p* »
Saxony, and at Alt Ranstadt Augustus, driven to extremity, ?{?«
subscribed a disgraceful peace, by which he not only renounced ' ?~~
all claim to the crown of Poland, and acknowledged the title of bSet^ree'n
Stanislaus, — but he wrote him a letter of congratulation. The Charles xn.
worst feature of the treaty was, however, his giving up to andtu"gus
Charles, colonel Patkul, a noble-minded Swede, whom that
hot-headed king had banished, for having spoken to him with obligesAu-
an honourable plainness; and who, having entered the service gustusto
of the czar, was sent as Russian minister to Augustus. He now Stanislaus,
basely surrendered him, — and Charles cruelly slew him.
12. The czar Peter, in the meantime, had improved the disci- _ ."7"
*. r t ■ • ■ ii- 11111 Great things
plme of his armies, increased their strength, and he had con- done by
quered Ingria, Livonia, and the city of JYarva. In the newly actenerygynd
conquered country, and on a desert island, which the long
winter of that climate rendered almost inaccessible, he had laid 1J03.
the foundation of a new city, designed for the royal residence ; founds Pe-
and to this he had transported, in less than five years, 300,000 tersburg.
inhabitants.
13. Poland being subdued, Charles, confident of success, and
resolving to attack his Russian enemy in the heart of his own
dominions, directed his march to Moscow ; but the roads, by
Peter's order, were destroyed, and the country desolated. —
Finding himself obstructed on the route first attempted, and re- Treachery
ceiving a promise of succor from Mazeppa, the chief of the °^manPof
Cossacks, Charles next endeavored to penetrate to the capital the Cos-
of Russia through the Ukraine. He also ordered his general, 9acks"
Lewenhaupt, to bring him a reinforcement from Livonia. He
entered the Ukraine in September, and overcoming every ob-
stacle, advanced to the river Dwina, where he expected to be
joined by Lewenhaupt and Mazeppa. The former was en-
countered by the Russians and defeated ; the latter failed of his
promised succor. Still, Charles, with a dreary winter before
* Mazeppa was a Pole, brought up as page to the king. Afterwards an
injured husband had him tied to the back of a wild horse, which carried
him to his native woods among the Cossacks, who made him their hetman.
11. What was next done in regard to the Polish election ? How was
Augustus situated ? How was it with the Russian invading troops ? What
occurred at Alt Ranstadt ? Relate the account given of colonel Patkul ? —
12. What had the czar Peter done in the meantime in respect to his army ?
What conquests had he made ? What city had he founded, and what num-
ber of inhabitants placed in it ? — 13. Describe the course taken by Charles
XII. ? What is said of Lewenhaupt ? Of Mazeppa?
398
CATHARINE SAVES THE RUSSIAN ARMY.
Middle Hist.
PERI'DIV.
CHAP. V.
jor-general.
Conse-
quence of
Charles' de-
feat.
Charles in-
cites the
Turks
against the
Russians.
May 21.
THE
TRUTH.
Peter in
danger.
(Catharine
was a poor
orphan girl,
but attrac-
tive, and
above all,
good tem-
pered. She
was taken
prisoner by
a Russian
army; and
from such
beginnings
rose to be
empress of
Russia.)
him, and with his army suffering from fatigue and famine, madly-
persisted in his march. At Pultowa, he engaged the Russian
army, consisting of more than 70,000 men, under the eye of
the czar. Charles, so often the conqueror, here suffered an entire
defeat. With only 300 guards, he escaped, wounded, from the
field, went to Bender, and put himself under the protection of
the Turks. Great was Peter's joy at this success. He advanced
officers, and rewarded soldiers ; and as for himself, having, in
the heat of the battle, taken prisoner a Swedish commander, and
having had a ball shot through his hat, he, for these demonstra-
tions, promoted himself to the rank of major-general.
14. Augustus had declared the treaty, which Charles had ex-
torted from him, void; and renewed his claim to the crown of
Poland. The czar supported his pretensions, entered Poland
with an army, and reinstated him in the regal authority. Den-
mark declared war anew with Sweden ; Peter laid claim to seve-
ral of its provinces, and the king of Prussia to others ; and
nothing but the interposition of the southern powers of Europe,
prevented its dismemberment.
15. Charles was received by the Turks with great hospitali-
ty, and employed himself in seeking to engage the Otttman
Porte in war with Russia. The Porte showed their disposition
to gratify his wishes, by imprisoning the Russian ambassador.
Peter, when informed of this, advanced upon Turkey at the
head of 40,000 men. Cantimir, prince of Moldavia, had
vainly promised to aid him, and he marched into his country
Near Jassy he discovered an army of 200,000 Turks, and soon
after a considerable body of Tartars. He fortified his camp on
the banks of the Pruth, where he lay besieged by the two hos-
tile armies. The Turks now attacked him, and for three days
kept the Russians fighting. Their numbers had wasted by
nearly one-half, — their provisions failed, — and Peter retired in
despair to his tent, forbidding any one to follow him. The czarina
Cathariive, with the wives of several of the officers, had ac-
companied the Russian army. She bethought herself of a last
resource. The Turkish vizier might perhaps receive offers of
peace if a suitable present could be made him, — without he
could not be approached. She bought of all the ladies their
jewelry, on pledge of future payment, and to these added her
own. She then approached the irritable Peter, who seeing a
gleam of hope, was pleased and grateful. The vizier received
Catharine- s messenger, and sent back an answer of peace ; and
Peter and his army were saved ; he giving ur> his ports on the
sea of Azof.
16. Meanwhile the affairs of Sweden continued to suffer.
13. Relate the battle of Pultowa. What is related of Charles XII. after
the battle ? What of the czar Peter ?— 14. What was the consequence of
Charles' defeat in Poland with other powers ?— 15. What was done by the
instigation of Charles, in Turkey? What was done by the czar in conse-
quence ? Describe the situation of Peter at the Pruth. How was he re-
lieved, and his army saved ?
RETURN OF CHARLES XII.
399
The refusal of Charles to subscribe to a treaty which the em-
peror and maritime powers had formed, kept alive the war in
Sweden. The Danes, Saxons, and Russians, continued hostili-
ties ; and the Swedes, though reduced to great distress, perse-
vering] y resisted. Charles was troublesome to the Turks, who,
though they desired not to violate the laws of hospitality, yet
requested him to leave their dominions, and at last resorted to
force, but still without effect. At length, receiving intelligence
that the Swedes were urging the regency of the kingdom upon
his sister, with a view of forcing her to make peace with Den-
mark and Russia, he was induced to return to his kingdom.
He arrived at Stralsund in Pomerania, five years after the battle
of Pultowa,
17. The czar, whose navy had acquired considerable strength,
commanded the Baltic, and now besieged Charles with a small
army which he had collected, in Stralsund, The place was
taken by storm. Charles escaped in a small vessel, passed safely
through the Danish fleet, and landed in Sweden. Fifteen years
had passed since the monarch left his capital, bent on the con-
quest of the world. In his humbled fortunes, he did not choose
to revisit it, but passed the winter at Carlscroon. Undaunted
amid all his reverses, and unsated with blood, he still thought
but of war. While his numerous enemies had made themselves
masters of all his provinces, and threatened to destroy Sweden
itself, Charles invaded Norway, and made the useless conquest
of Christiana, which he was soon forced to abandon. However,
he a second time invaded that kingdom, and while watching the
attack of his soldiers upon Fredericshall, he was struck on the
head by a cannon ball, and expired without a groan. The Swe-
dish senate took immediate measures for settling the govern-
ment. Ulrica Eleonora, sister of Charles, was raised to the
throne. Treaties with the different powers were concluded, in
which, by ample concessions, Sweden obtained peace. The
czar, her most powerful enemy, was the last pacified, and then,
only by obtaining the important provinces of Livonia, Esthonia,
Ingria, and Carelia.
18. Peter had married, when very young, the daughter of a
Russian nobleman. After a few years he put her way, for no
alleged cause, and confined her in a convent. Yet Alexis, the
son whom she bore him, he designed as his heir ; but the youth
often saw his mother, and he grew up undutiful and intractable
towards his father, — making game of his improvements, and prac-
tising petty deceptions to eseape, when the czar wished him to
attend to matters of importance. His marriage with a lovely
and amiable princess, but made his hopeless intemperance and
Modern His.
PERI'D IV.
CHAP. V.
(After the
treaty of the
Pruth,
Charles, in
passing the
Turkish vi-
zier, tore.his
robe with
his spur.)
1714.
Charles re-
turns to
Sweden.
Charles in
his last days
seems half
insane.
1718.
Death of
Charles.
Peace of
Nystadt,
Between
the Swedes
and Rus-
sians.
(Peter pays
the Swedes
as indemni-
ty, 2,000,000
of dollars-
The Czaro-
witz. His
worthless
and irre-
claimable
character.
16. How was Sweden at this time situated ? What was the conduct of
Charles towards the Turks? What induced him to return to Sweden ?—
IT. What happened on his return ? What course did he take after his es-
cape from Stralsund ? Where and how did his death occur ? Who was
made queen? On what conditions did Sweden obtain peace, especially from
I; the czar ?— 18. What was the character of the czarowitz Alexis ? How
i had. Peter treated the mother of Alexis ?
400
THE CELESTIAL EMPIRE.
Modern His.
1931.
Peter takes
a new title.
1925
Death of
Peter the
Great.
(Called by
the Chinese
the Celestial
Empire.)
Kublai.
1299
to
1360.
Marco Polo
in China.
(See history
of Colum-
bus, Vasco
de Gama,
the Cabots,
Verazani,
&c.)
136$.
Dynasty of
Ming.
1649.
Dynasty of
Tsing.
profligacy the more apparent ; and the neglected and ill-treated
wife died of a broken heart. Peter then threatened. His son
escaped to Vienna, telling the emperor his life was in danger.
Peter invited him to return on the pledge of safety ; but he
brought him to trial, and the nobles and clergy pronounced him
worthy of death. The evening before his execution was to have
taken place, he died in his bed, doubtless by poison. After this,
Peter took the title of " Emperor of all the Russias," which has
been retained by his successors. He made an excursion to the
Caspian, intending to attack Persia ; but returned after having
founded a city. His wife, Catharine, was crowned empress dur-
ing the lifetime of her husband, and on his death she succeeded,
by his will, to the government of the Russian empire*
19. CHINA. — In 1719, the czar Peter, sent an embassy across
Siberia to China ; and in 1737, Russia formed a treaty of friend-
ship with that power, and sent an envoy to the court of Pekin,
China is interesting from its great extent and population, but
materials for its history are scarce. Before the Christian era,
from 1776 to 1122, three dynasties reigned; after which, until
250 B. C, there is utter historical darkness; owing, it is said,
to the destruction of the Chinese records by Schi-ho-ang-ti;
who became the founder of a prosperous dynasty soon after the
erection of the great wall, about 300 years before Christ.
Through the middle ages China makes no figure, until Kublai
Khan, a grandson of Jenghiz, conquered the country ; founded
Pekin, and made himself Great Khan of China. During his
prosperous reign, Marco Polo, a Venetian traveller, visited his
kingdom. Publishing his travels on his return, his description
of the riches of the " East Indies," the name given to the re-
gions of the east, so inflamed the minds of the Italians, that
they became a nation of discoverers ; their great object being to
find a passage by sea to these rich countries. The race of Jen-
ghiz lost the supremacy in 1368, being then supplanted by the
dynasty of Ming. This was driven out in 1647, by the Man-
chew Tartars, whose dynasty, called that of Tsing, has since
continued to reign. The Chinese reckon this dynasty to be
their twentieth. In the seventeenth century they received the
Jesuit missionaries ; but early in the eighteenth, they drove them
out, and persecuted their followers.
* We have continued this account of the northern nations beyond the peace
of Utrecht, for the purpose of bringing to a close the career of the two prin-
cipal actors, Charles XII. and Peter the Great.
18. Did marrying an interesting woman reclaim him ? Relate the re-
mainder of his history. What new title did Peter take ? What excursion
did he make ? Who succeeded him ? — 19. What embassy is here men-
tioned? What treaty ? What remarks are made concerning the Chinese
history before the time of their historical darkness ? What from that time
to the reign of Kublai Khan ? What during his reign ? What after it ?
The Czarina saves the Russian army at the Pruth.
PERIOD V.
THE TREATY OF UTRECHT, ~? j »-fl<j> £THE WAR 0F THE SPANISH
WHICH CLOSES 5 C SUCCESSION,
THE TREATY OF AIX-LA-CHA- C l^Ag £tHE WAR 0F THE AUSTRIAN
PELLE, WHICH CLOSES £ *£ SUCCESSION.
CHAPTER I.
Invasion of" the Turks. — Eight years war.
1. The peace of Utrecht had produced a considerable change
in the situation and affairs of the southern nations of Europe.
Austria received an accession of territory in the Spanish Neth-
erlands, and in Italy. Two new kingdoms arose, Prussia, the
title of whose king, Frederic II., was now, for the first time,
acknowledged by France ; and Sicily, which, with his heredi-
tary possessions, was erected into a kingdom for Victor Ama-
deus II., duke of Savoy. No treaty having been made between
Spain and Austria, although the war ceased, neither of these
kingdoms resigned its pretensions. Peace was for the interest
of the leading powers ; yet Austria was soon at war with the
Turks, who had encroached upon the Venetian possessions, and
overrun the Morea. Their army, under prince Eugene,* attack-
ed and defeated the Turks at Zenta, at Peterwaradin, and
Period V. — Chap. I. — 1. What changes were produced by the treaty of
Utrecht ? What new kingdom arose ? What two nations were not parties
to the treaty of peace? What encroachments h-ad the Turks recently
made ? Give an account of the commander sent against them. (See note.)
What signal victories did Prince Eugene gain over the Turks ?
403
Modern His.
404
THE PRAGMATIC SANCTION.
Modern His. again at Belgrade. A peace was soon after concluded, at Passa-
period v, rowitz, in which Turkey ceded to Austria Belgrade, part of
chap. i. Servi.a, and Wallachia. Venice retained part of Dalmatia, hut
v-*"~v~>>*-/ surrendered to the Turks the Morea.
2. While Austria was employing her forces in the east, Spain,
under Philip V., was concerting measures for renewing hostili-
ties, with the design to recover possessions, which the treaty
of Utrecht had given to the house of Austria. The Spaniards
Projects of made themselves masters of Sardinia, and a great part of the
thministerSh Island of Sicily. Alberoni, the minister of Philip, had also
Alberoni. concerted measures to procure for his monarch the regency of
France, (his grandfather, Louis XIV., being now dead,) and for
placing the son of James II., called " the pretender," upon the
throne of England; but another, and leading object of the court,
was to recover the Spanish possessions in Italy, as a portion for
the children of Elizabeth, the queen of Spain, an Italian
princess of the house of Farnese, and heiress to the duchies of
Tuscany, Parma, and Modena. These designs of the Spanish
court aroused the jealousy of England, France, Austria and
HIS- Holland ; and they formed a league for the preservation of the
Quadruple peace of Utrecht, called the "Quadruple Alliance," which
Alliance provided that the emperor of Germany should renounce all
between claim to Spain and its colonies ; and that the king of Spain
France,' should give up his pretensions to the provinces already ceded.
AHoiiandnd '* stipulated also, that Don Carlos, son of Elizabeth, should
against' eventually succeed to the duchies of Tuscany, Parma and Pla-
Spam. centia; and that the duke of Savoy should exchange Sicily for
Sardinia. The Spanish court refused the dictation of the " Al-
liance," and a declaration of war was made by England and
France against Spain, whenPhilipV., alarmed at the consequences
of resistance, disgraced his minister Alberoni, and acceded to
the terms of the " Quadruple Alliance."
3. The emperor of Germany, Charles VI., who had no sons,
desired to secure the succession of the Austrian territories, his
Pragmatic hereditary domain, to his daughter, Maria Theresa. With this
Sanction, (a view he put forth his u Pragmatic Sanction," securing the sue-
ing from the cession of female heirs ; having previously obtained the assent
theadvfeeof °f tne hereditary states of the empire ; to which he now sought
his counsel.) by negotiation, to add the approval of the other European
powers, and which he finally obtained.
1*733* 4. The throne of Poland becoming vacant by the death of Au-
theY/- gustus? Stanislaus Leczinski, whom Charles XII., of Sweden,
Ush sue- had formerly elevated, was now chosen king by the Polish elec-
lioS tors' anc^ receive& tne support of Louis XV. of France, who
to had married his daughter. The sovereigns of Russia and Aus-
1109. tria opposed his election, and compelled he Poles to a second
islaus
Leczin 1. What changes of territory were made at the peace of Passarowitz ? —
ski. 2. What places were taken by Spain ? What designs entertained ? What
was the course of Spain in regard to the Quadruple Alliance? — 3. What
was done by Charles VI. to secure his daughter's succession 1 — 4. By whom
was Leczinski chosen, and to what sovereignty ?
WAR OF THE POLISH SUCCESSION.
405
choice, when Augustus, son of the deceased monarch, was
raised to the throne. The king of France resenting this treat-
ment to his father-in-law, formed an alliance with the kings of
Spain and Sardinia, and commenced hostilities. The war was
carried on in Italy by the allies, who made themselves masters
of most of the Austrian possessions in that country. The
German empire was attacked by the French, and Philipsburg
was taken. The losses of the emperor, and the pacific dispo-
sition of cardinal Fleury, who was at the head of the French
ministry, caused a peace, — which, the succeeding year, was set-
tled at Vienna. By this treaty the French guarantied the "Prag-
matic sanction." Stanislaus renounced his claim to the Polish
throne, and received in compensation the duchy of Lorraine,
where he passed his days in study and philosophic repose ;
the former duke receiving Tuscany in exchange. Don Carlos
was acknowledged king of the two Sicilies j\ and the king of Sar-
dinia received some accession of territory.
5. The emperor, Charles VI., believed that he had secured to
his daughter his rich Austrian possessions, including the crowns
of Hungary and Bohemia. But the Pragmatic Sanction, which
they had guarantied, proved a feeble barrier against the selfish-
ness and ambition which ruled in the hearts of the neighboring
monarchs. The death of Charles was immediately followed by
claims from the elector of Bavaria to the kingdom of Bo-
hemia, of Augustus, elector of Saxony, now king of Po-
land, to the whole Austrian territories, and by other antiquated
demands. Nevertheless, Maria Theresa took possession of
her inheritance, and received the most flattering homage ; par-
ticularly from her Hungarian subjects, with whom her digni-
fied and conciliating manners had rendered her extremely po-
pular. She had married Francis of Lorraine, grand duke of
Tuscany, and she greatly desired his elevation to the imperial
throne.
6. Prussia had now become a kingdom of considerable
strength and importance. An immense treasure amassed by the
parsimony of its first king, Frederic William, and an army
of sixty thousand men, had passed under the control of his son
Frederic II., who was now eager to employ the power and
wealth of which he was master, to enlarge his territories. His
heart was chiefly bent on obtaining Silesia, which belonged to
Maria Theresa. At the head of a powerful army, he marched
into the territory, and then offered to support her claims in
Modern His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. I.
(f i. e. Naples
and Sicily.)
1T38.
Maria The-
resa(called
the queen of
Hungary.)
174LO.
Associates
in power
her husband
Francis of
Lorraine.
War of the
Austrian
succession.
Dishonora-
ble conduct
of Frederic
II.
4. Observe and relate what nations are now interfering in the internal
affairs of Poland. What kings support Leczinski? What was the course
and termination of the " War of the Polish succession ?" What changes
were made by the treaty of Vienna? — 5. What dominions did Charles VI.
leave his daughter ? Why did not the Pragmatic Sanction insure her a
peaceable succession? Which of her subjects seemed most attached?
Whom did she marry ? — 6. How did Prussia become strong in her army
and treasury ? Who was Frederic William's successor, and on what was
he bent ? What was his conduct in respect to his unoffending fellow-
sovereign, Maria Theresa?
408
WAR OF THE AUSTRIAN SUCCESSION.
Modern His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. I.
1741.
MOLL-
WITZ.
League of
Prussia,
France
and
Bavaria,
against Ma-
ria Theresa
1742.
At Prague,
the elector
crowned
king of Bo-
hemia, at
Frankfort,
emperor.
Peace of
Breslau,
between
Prussia and
Austria.
1743.
DETTW-
GEJV.
Austrians
and English,
under the
king of
England,
defeat the
French.
Treaty of
Fontain-
blean,
other quarters, on condition of her peaceably relinquishing to
him Lower Silesia. She rejected his offer, and prepared to re-
sist his usurpation. Their armies met at Mollwitz ; the Prus-
sians obtained a victory, and the whole province of Silesia sub-
mitted to Frederic.
7. His successes awakened the ambition of the French court.
A treaty was formed between Louis XV., Frederic of Prussia,
and Charles, elector of Bavaria, by which it was agreed to
divide the Austrian inheritance, and place the elector of Bava-
ria on the imperial throne. The Bavarian and French forces
entered Upper Austria, and advancing upon Vienna, compelled
Maria Theresa to retire to Hungary. The generous Hungarians,
aroused by the wrongs of their sovereign, swore " We will die
for our queen, Maria Theresa." From the other parts of her
dominions also, powerful armies rallied to her standard. The
elector, on account of the lateness of the season, and the
strength of Vienna, turned towards Prague, which was taken,
and he was there crowned king of Bohemia. Proceeding to
Frankfort, he was, in that city, elected emperor of Germany,
under the title of Charles VII. An army of the queen now
invaded the Bavarian territories.
8. Frederic, regardless of his allies, entered into a treaty with
Maria Theresa at Breslau. She granted him Upper and Lower
Silesia, the object of his desires, and he engaged to remain
neutral. The neutrality of Poland was also purchased by a
grant of new territories. Meanwhile, the French army in Bo-
hemia was reduced to the necessity of acting on the defensive.
That portion which was in possession of Prague, was at length
compelled to retire, but through the skill of their commander,
Belleilse, they effected a safe retreat. Louis, now deserted
by Frederic, offered proposals of peace, which Maria Theresa
rejected. George II. of England, sent to her aid British and
Hanoverian troops, and in the next campaign the French were
driven from Bohemia, and the emperor was reduced to distress.
At Dettingen, the British, Hanoverian, and Austrian troops, un-
der the eye of George II, maintained a sanguinary contest with
the French, and defeated them. The king of Sardinia now be-
came an ally of Maria Theresa.
9. These successes of the queen, and the haughtiness with
which she rejected every proposal of peace, led to a new
coalition against her. Louis XV. renewed his alliance with
Spain at Fontairibleau, and declared war against England ; and
6. How did she receive his offer ? What battle followed, and what was
its result ? — 7. What treat y was now formed against Maria Theresa ? How
did the allies commence hostilities ? Relate the movements of the elector
of Bavaria till he became emperor. Where, in the mean time, was Maria
Theresa, and what attached subjects did she find? — 8. What were the
parties in the treaty of Breslau, and what its conditions ? Whom besides
Frederic did Maria Theresa buy to be neutral ? What was now the condi-
tion of the French in Bohemia? Relate the battle of Dettingen. What
ally now joined the cause of the queen ? — 9. What led to a new coalition
against Maria Theresa ?
THE EIGHT YEARS' WAR.
407
from this period these two powers may almost be regarded the
principals in the war. By the influence of France, — Prussia,
Sweden, and some of the German princes, were at length in-
duced to arm in defence of the emperor. The king of Prussia
invaded Bohemia. His successes at first were rapid, but he
was soon compelled to surrender his conquests and retire. The
emperor was in danger of being driven again from his capital,
when death put an end to his hopes and fears. Maximilian,
his son, now entered into a treaty with the queen of Hungary,
by which he agreed that her husband should be made emperor;
she engaging to put him in possession of his hereditary estates.
Francis of Lorraine was accordingly elected emperor at Frank-
fort, under the title of Francis 1,
10. The armies of Prussia continued the war in Silesia and
Bohemia; but after Frederic had obtained two decisive and
bloody victories, one near Friedberg in Silesia, the other at Sorr
in Bohemia, a treaty of peace was made at Dresden, by which
he acknowledged the validity of Francis7 election, and was con-
firmed in the possession of Silesia. The French maintained the
war with obstinacy in Flanders. Saxe, who commanded the
French army, obtained a victory over the English and Hano-
verians, under the duke of Cumberland, at Fontenoy, and re-
duced Brussels and Brabant. The duke of Cumberland was
recalled by the progress of the young pretender, prince Charles
Edward, whom the French had encouraged to make a
descent upon England. The Austrians were left to maintain
the contest in Flanders, and marshal Saxe obtained a victory
over them, at Roucoux.
11. Maria Theresa having made peace with Prussia, was
ready to turn the whole force of her arms against France and
Spain. The king of England, incensed at the support given to
the pretender, only waited to suppress the insurrection which
his presence occasioned, to engage with new zeal in the conti-
nental war. In the succeeding campaign, the Dutch took an
active part against the French. The duke of Cumberland,
after having defeated the pretender's adherents in the battle of
Culloden, and disgraced himself by the barbarities committed
after it, returned with a reinforcement of British troops. An in-
decisive, but bloody battle was fought at Val, after which the
French invested, and finally, to the great consternation of the
Dutch, made themselves masters of Bergen-op-zoom, the strong-
est fortification in Dutch Brabant. At sea the British flag was
triumphant.
Modern His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. I.
1745.
FRIED-
BERG and
SORR.
Frederic de-
feats the
allies.
(In America
Louisburg is
taken by the
English
colonists
under Pep-
perell.)
ROU-
COUX.
French de-
feat the
Austrians.
1746.
CULLO-
DEN.
In Scotland.
1747-
VAL.
French vic-
torious.
They take
Bergen-op-
zoom.
9. What powers made a league at Fontainbleau ? What other powers
were induced by France to unite against Austria ? — lO. By what peace did
Frederic again desert his allies ? Did he serve his own purposes by gaining
the province he desired ? What victories did he first gain ? What fortress
was taken in America ? What generals were now in Flanders, and what
battles were fought ? What called the English commander away ? —
11. What battle did he fight in Scotland, and who were defeated? What
battle was fought during the last campaign of the eight years' war? What
is said of Bergen-op-zoom ?
408
PACIFICATION OP EUROPE.
Modern His.
PERIOD V.
CHAP. II.
Peace of
Aix-La-
Chapelle.
closes the
Eight Years'
War,
12. Louis now turned his thoughts towards peace, which the
situation of his kingdom, notwithstanding his late victories,
rendered necessary. A congress was opened at Aix-la-Chapelle,
and a treaty formed, on the basis of mutual restitution. The
queen of Spain obtained for her second son the sovereignty
of the duchies of Parma and Placentia. The king of Prussia
was guarantied the possession of Silesia. The right of Maria
Theresa to the hereditary possessions of the house of Austria,
with the exception of such portions as were already ceded to
other powers, was acknowledged, and guarantied anew. That
England should return her conquests, was subject of severe
mortification to the people of New England ; who had mani-
fested their loyalty and courage by the remarkable siege and
capture of Louisburg ; then the key of the French possessions,
and the strongest fortress in America. Thus was closed, " The
Eight Years' War ;" during which blood flowed freely to gratify
a few crowned heads ; who sent armies to be slaughtered, with
as little compunction as they would have moved the pawns upon
a chess board ; and often for purposes worse than idle. This
war began with Frederic's desire to rob a young queen of her
honest inheritance, which he had engaged to respect; and ended
with his consummating the robbery.
1?©6.
Union
of the
Scotch
and
English
parlia-
ments.
(tin all
taxes on
land,
Scot-
land is
to raise
one-
sixth,
England
five-
Bixths.)
CHAPTER II.
England.
1. The union of the legislative powers of England and
Scotland, is the most important event of the reign of queen
Anne. The bill proposed allowed the Scots to send to the Bri-
tish parliament sixteen peers and forty-five commoners, with
reciprocal rights of trade. It was violently opposed in the Scot-
tish parliament, on the ground of inequality of representation ;
but was finally accepted, on the parliament of England paying
398,000 pounds sterling as an equivalent.! It diminished the
political importance of Scotland, but secured its tranquillity.
England was weary of the long and sanguinary wars of the
Spanish succession, and intrigues were set on foot against the
duke of Marlborough. Queen Anne, when young, had formed
an intimacy with the witty, sprightly, but high tempered Sarah
Jennings, afterwards married to Col. Churchill, who rose by
his great military services, and by the affection of the queen for
12. Where did a congress assemble ? What were the conditions of the
peace ? Why were the people of New England mortified that the English
should give up their conquests ? What remarks close the chapter?
Chap. II. — I. What was the most important political event of the reign
of queen Anne? What plan was proposed ? How were difficulties finally
adjusted ? Give an account of queen Anne's female favorites.
THE HANOVERIANS SUCCEED THE STUARTS. 409
his wife, until he became duke of Marlborough, and received Modem ms.
the splendid estate and palace called from one of his great bat- period v.
ties, " Blenheim." The duchess introduced to the service of CHAP- n-
the queen, one Agnes Hill, a weak but cunning sycophant, ^>^w^>^
who supplanted her in Anne's affections, and afterwards became Under
" the lady Masham." The duchess had become presuming Anne
and imperious ; and when she found that the queen was grow- jjjjj ^
ing tired of her sway, she gave loose to her fiery tongue, and too
irritated Anne by continual reproaches. When affairs came to j1^^!.
this pass among the women, then the enemies of Marlborough, f9red
the lords Bolingbroke, Oxford, aud others, by paying court Tneans7
to lady Masham, brought the queen to treat the duchess with jjjjjj*
cutting neglect, and strip the duke of his offices. The duke in favor-
his political and pecuniary operations, had laid himself open to ltes'
censure. After this, the treaty of Utrecht was negotiated, and
a brief pacification of Europe ensued.
2. Queen Anne survived this event but a short time ; for her
ministers no longer occupied with a foreign war, broke into fu-
rious quarrels with each other. With all the energy her gentle
nature could command, the queen sought to direct affairs, and 1^13.
settle difficulties; and to that purpose she attended a long con- (Pope,
ference and dispute of her cabinet council. Her feminine mind ^on\~
was overwhelmed with this strife of masculine passions ; she swift,
declared she could not outlive it, — sunk into a lethargy, and now'
after lingering two days, expired. The ministers, when they jfjJed")
found that the queen must die, roused to a better spirit; and by
their wise and rapid measures, placed the kingdom in a condi-
tion, which secured the peaceful accession of the Hanoverian
line, in the person of George I.
3. The three great factions who now divided the nation, were Line of '
the whigs, lories, and Jacobites, of which only the latter were swn.~
opposed to the king. It was his policy to conciliate them James 1.
all ; instead of which, he lent himself completely to the whig ^JJ'
party, and was guilty of flagrant injustice to the leading tories ; m.totbe
taking away their estates, and in some instances procuring their epaS-r
execution. Henry St. John, lord Bolingbroke, and the earl tine,
of Ormond, who had stood high in queen Anne's favor, were ^J}**'
attainted of high treason and deprived of their estates. The heiress,
aged earl of Oxford was impeached, and though suffering with ™^q°u£'
disease, so that his physician declared imprisonment would tus,
endanger his life, yet the king unmercifully kept him confined 0Cf Han-
in the tower. The principal crime alleged against him, was over-
that of having led queen Anne to make the peace of Utrecht. j^guS
That such allegations were but mere pretences to commit legal king of
1. What political change occurred when the lady Masham's influence nereclj_
was completely established ? — 2. Relate the circumstances of queen Anne's tary
death. What at the last, was done by the ministers of the queen when she elector
was near death?— 3. What were the three political parties ? Which were of Han-
opposed to the accession of George ? What was the conduct of the king over*
towards these parties? How were the ministers of the late queen treated,
the earl of Oxford in particular ? What was the accusation against him, and
what did the people believe ?
52
o
S3
ba
So
I
3
410 SOUTH SEA SCHEME.
Modern His, murder on men whom the king, and his unprincipled and artful
period v. minister, Sir Robert Walpole, wished out of their way, the
chap. ii. people believed ; and hence hatred arose in many minds.
-^*~v~**s 4. The Jacobite party gained ground; — the leaders pro-
jected a rebellion, and the pretender was invited over. Louis
XIV favored, though not openly, his cause; the earl of Mar,
awi* aided by many of the Scottish nobles, took arms ; and the earl
pre's- of Derwentwater put himself at the head of a force in the
F^S^h nortn °f England. While the pretender was preparing to em-
defeat bark, Louis XJV. died ; and the duke of Orleans, the regent of
lender." France, did not favor the enterprise of the Jacobites, though he
amused and deceived them by false pretences.f The troops of
George I. totally defeated lord Derwentwater, at Preston;
and on the same day another army, under the command of the
riff- i>uke of Argyle, gained an advantage over the earl of Mar, at
a^1?' Sherifmiuir. After these transactions, the pretender arrived in
Hano-' Scotland, and was proclaimed king by his adherents ; but find-
defeats' m£ n*s cause desperate, and knowing that a heavy price was set
Mar,ja- upon his head, he returned to France. Some of his adherents
cobne. £ec]^ — some submitted, — and some were apprehended, and treated
with unsparing cruelty. Lord Derwentwater was beheaded on
Tower-hill.
t(Bo- 5. This reign was the era of the famous speculating project,
bJSte, call the " South Sea Scheme." The " South Sea Company'1
now in was formed on some pretence of securing advantages in the
was in' South Sea trade, but with the real object of obtaining the public
^esuif" stock? and becoming the sole creditor of the nation. An enor-
the pre- mous amount of South Sea stock was created in the first place,
ten er.) without any actual capital. Of this, a large amount was given
1?20. in bribes to insure the co-operation of persons, influential in the
SSeah view °f tne speculators. They succeeded, and the holders of
Scheme, a considerable part of the public debt were induced to exchange
their securities for this stock ; and it rose in the market at one
time to 400 per cent, above par. The whole nation seemed
seized with the South Sea mania. The government and the
Bank of England, as well as innumerable individuals, became
deeply involved. At length the bubble burst. The stock sunk
Vui- " to rise no more 5 and individuals who had rashly parted with
sion" in their real property to purchase nominal, found themselves in a
ian(L~ destitute and forlorn condition. The bank of England was in
imminent danger of failure, and public credit, of extinction.
George I., who had gone on a visit to his Hanoverian do-
minions, was called home in haste; and he and his parliament
succeeded, after great difficulties, in allaying the evil, and setting
4t. What was done by the Jacobite party ? By whom was the pretender
favored? Give an account of the battle of Preston. Of SherhTmuir,
What is related of the pretender ? Of his adherents ? — 5. What speculating
project was now set on foot ? What account is given of the South Sea Com-
pany f Of the stock issued by this company ? How far did the speculators
succeed ? What parties became involved ? When the bubble burst what
happened ?
THE YOUNG PRETENDER. 411
the wheels of commerce again in motion ; but many families •Mt)dern H^
were irretrievably ruined, and the national credit and resources perfd v.
were, for some years, impaired. CI1AP- IT-
6. George II., as has been related, engaged in alliances with x~*'~^/^*~/
Frederic the Great, of Prussia, and Maria Theresa of Austria, 1TSW.
and sent an army against the French under the duke of Cum- Ge{Jge
berland. Another attempt was made to restore the Stuarts. The 1745. ,
chevalier Charles Edward, son of the pretender, encou- p^q^~
raged by the Jacobites, landed in Scotland. The Highland chief- pans.
tains and some lowland nobles joined him with their retainers. qZcLs-
At their head the prince marched to Edinburgh, surprised and muir-
made himself master of the city. He established himself in bites de-
Holy-Rood palace, and caused his father to be proclaimed king gj^-jg
of Great Britain. He afterwards gained a victory over the king's (Col.
troops at Preston Pans. Parliament, alarmed, recalled the duke G^^'
of Cumberland from the continental war, and put him at the killed.)
head of their forces.
7. Meantime Charles Edward made an irruption into Eng-
land, took the town of Carlisle, and proceeded to Derby. But
finding that few of the English Jacobites joined his standard, FAL_
and learning that extensive preparations were making against kirk.
him, the disappointed adventurer retraced his steps. At Fal- bites
kirk, he obtained another advantage over the royal troops ; but ™l™~
Cumberland, who followed him, gained a bloody victory over 1^4©
his adherents at Culloden. The duke gave no quarter to those cul-
who surrendered ; and when from among the mangled bodies on ^Ir.
the battle-field, some rose up, recovering from the faintness of The
their wounds, there were those in watching, who shot them pieten-
down ; and who killed even females who came to seek for their t^,r ^
dead. From this time the wretched young prince, — a heavy price feated.
set upon his head, wandered for five months under various dis-
guises. He was pursued and hunted from place to place ; suf-
fering extreme hardships, yet experiencing the attachment and
fidelity of the Highlanders, the poorest of whom would not be-
tray him for money. At length he procured a passage to
France. The cruel battle of Culloden crushed for ever the
hopes of the unfortunate Stuarts.
6 What has already been related respecting the foreign alliances and
wars of George II. ? Relate the progress of the young pretender up to the
time of the battle of Preston Pans or Gladsmuir. Who was successful at
that battle ?— T. Relate the progress of Charles Edward m England. Why
did he retrace his steps ? What other battles were /ought and with what
success ? Give a more particular account of the battle of Culloden. What
became of the young pretender after this ?
MAP Wo. 13.
HOLLAND,
AND THE '
Contiguous Countries-
N O R T
d
S E
'Ghent
Groningen^nffldenbi
LeuwardenA / J*
Ztrtpheft
iippe R.
%*
>^.*>
lberfeld/^g4J: <5
coioSie^ti^g y ''-'{& in
, Nordhausen
a^Cobl
®7
Cambray*^ tS4j»^Ki Basto _
•St. Quentin ^ Sedan\ Luxemburg
2
l„A
PERIOD VI;
THE PEACE OF
AIX-LA-CHAPELLE,
THE DECLARATION
OF INDEPENDENCE,
?1T48,5WH
5 S£eIG
TO
ICH CLOSES THE
HT YEARS WAR/
BY THE REPUBLIC
OF AMERICA.
CHAPTER I.
The Seven Years' War.
1. An awful visitation of Almighty God was manifested at Modem His.
this period ; a dreadful earthquake levelled the palaces of Lis- Perpd vi.
bon in the dust, and crushed its inhabitants beneath their ruins, chap. i.
The earth opened and swallowed them up, and the sea over- v^^^w
flowed them; so that 30,000 perished in an hour. But the 1T55-
rulers of the nations were bent on again preparing for their peo- EaatrLjsbon.e
pie the more destructive evil of war.
2. Austria formed an alliance with France, Russia, and Swe-
* This war might properly be called the Silesian war, as its cause was the
desire which Frederic of Prussia had to possess the province of Silesia. It
is often quoted in European history as the War of the Austrian Succession.
In America it was called the Old French War.
Period VI.— Chap. I. — 1. What visitation of Providence is here re-
lated ?
413
414 AUSTRIA ATTACKS PRUSSIA.
Modern His. aen. ana< Prussia with England. The alliance of the empress,
I'Kiti'D vi. Maria Theresa with France, the ancient and hereditary enemy
chap. i. of the house of Austria, for the purpose of invading a part of
v - ■-v-w the German empire, is accounted for, by her animosity towards
Reigning Frederic of Prussia for seizing Silesia, and her desire not only
SanC\ to recover it, but to make reprisals. Indeed, the formidable al-
GpruKi"'{ liance against Prussia hoped to divide that kingdom among
Frederic I themselves. The French took Minorca. The king of Prussia
Germany, ] invaded Saxony, and compelled Augustus, the elector, to aban-
M: lhe"' \ don Dresden, of which he took possession. He then invaded
Fmrfce, i Bohemia, and obtained a victory over an Austrian army at
^is 3 Lowesitz.
Russia, l 3. The following year, the French under mareschal d'Etrees,
yoSngeS' I passed the Rhine to invade Hanover. George II., now king of
daughter [ England, was warmly attached to his electoral dominions, and
the Great. J sent his brother, the duke of Cumberland to the continent,
to command an army of 40,000 Hanoverians and Hessians;
FreX notwithstanding which, the French conquered from them the
conquer electorate. It was reconquered the succeeding campaign.
Hanover. pre(jer£c 0f prussia was now in an alarming condition. An
army of 180,000 Russians was threatening to invade his domi-
nions •, the Swedes were in arms, and ready to enter Pomerania
in order to regain that country ; and the empress Maria Theresa
had augmented her armies to 180,000, intending to attack him
on the side of the German empire. He found it necessary to
make four divisions of his army ; each of which was to enter
Bohemia separately, but to unite with the others ; and all to join
in the neighborhood of Prague. After the union of three divi-
prjique si°ns? Frederic gave battle to the Austrians, who, under the
Frederic de- command of prince Charles of Lorraine, and marshal
iSians. Daun, were encamped near Prague. After a hard fought battle,
the Austrians were compelled to quit the field, and retire within
the walls, which Frederic closely besieged. On the approach
KOLW. of marshal Daun, at the head of another division of the Austrian
defeatFre- army, Frederic, with a part of his forces, advanced towards the
,derie'™ ?™ Elbe, and gave him battle at Kolin. He lost the field, and was
loses 20,000 *, .,, n& . , ,, „ , t> i •
men. compelled to raise the siege ol Prague and evacuate Bohemia.
4. The Russians, French, and Swedes, had now invaded Prussia,
but the martial genius of Frederic did not desert him. Assem-
robbach bling another army, he offered battle to the French and impe-
nvj Leuthen. rialists at Rosbach, where he obtained a complete victory. He
featfthe6- then marched and met the army of the Austrians in Silesia, un-
im^edaiists ^er Prmce Charles, and at Leuthen was again victorious. The
Russians, meanwhile, had retired into their own country, and
2. What two alliances were formed ? What seems the moving cause of
these alliances, and the war which followed ? Give an account of the prin-
cipal occurrences of the first campaign. — 3. Relate the first events of the se-
cond campaign. (1757.) Wh;$t was the situation of Frederic in respect to in-
vading armies ? What were his arrangements? Tn what battle was he suc-
cessful, and whom did he defeat? What reverse did he meet, and how
many men did he lose ? — 4t< Relate the last events of the second campaign,
including two battles.
THE SEVEN YEARS' WAR. 415
the Prussian army, which had been opposed to them, being left Modern Hia.
at liberty, turned against the Swedes, and recovered many of peri'd vi.
their conquests in Pomerania. chap. i.
5. The king of Prussia in the next campaign besieged 01- v-^v^-^
mutz ; but after four weeks, turned his forces against the Rus- 1758.
sians, who had invaded Brandenburg. He obtained a victory Zdorf.
over them at Zorndorf, and compelled them to retreat into Po- Frederic de
land. Frederic was afterwards defeated at Hochkirchen, by the Russians.
Austrians; but he still retained Silesia, and prevented them from hochkir
deriving any important advantage from their victory. He next Acu2g
marched into Saxony, where the Austrians had besieged Dres- defeat Fre-
den and Leipzig, compelled them to raise the siege of both cities. denc*
Thus ended the campaign with the triumph of the Prussian
arms. The British had in the meantime been successful at
sea.
6. The succeeding campaign opened upon Frederic with a
reverse. The Russians again advanced upon Silesia, and made
themselves masters of Frankfort upon the Oder. The Prus- 1759.
sian monarch marched against the combined Russian and Aus- cuw-
trian force, under general Laudon, which was posted at the #oS~
village of Cunnersdorf. A most sanguinary battle ensued. Not- Russians
withstanding the almost incredible exertions of Frederic, the su- triansdefeat
perior numbers of the Russians and Austrians prevailed, and the F^PC>
Prussians were defeated. At one period of the battle, victory 16,000.
seemed to have declared in favor of Frederic, who at the mo-
ment wrote a congratulatory note to his queen, " We have
driven the Russians from their intrenchments — expect within (in America,
two hours to hear of a glorious victory." His triumph was battle of the
short, and in a few hours another note conveyed to the queen ofabrji-
the orders, " Remove the royal family from Berlin — Let the D^JjJ^f
archives be carried to Potsdam — The town may make condi- Wolfe, and
tions with the enemy." Yet so skillful were Frederic's ma- SUQUeenbteYf
noeuvres, that the Russians did not hazard the attack of Berlin,
and he soon appeared again in the field with a formidable force.
7. Meantime, prince Ferdinand, with the British and Hano- mijvdejv.
verian forces, drew the French into an engagement at Minden, n^f^dlfeat
and completely defeated them. A Russian army was to join the French.
the Austrians in Silesia. To prevent this junction, was now Liomrz.
the object of Frederic, and at Lignitz, he drew the Austrians into Flf^t[ict^'
a battle, before the arrival of the Russians, and defeated them. Austrians.
The Russians on learning this, repassed the Oder, but sent a
strong detachment into Brandenburg, where they joined the
Austrians, and made themselves masters of Berlin. Frederic torqujI.
passed into Saxony, and at Torqua defeated the Austrians under F ^She6"
marshal Daun. This victory resulted in the recovery of nearly Austrians.
5. Relate the principal events of the campaign of 1758. or the third. — 0.
Give a particular account of the battle of Cunnersdorf. Did Frederic give
up in discouragement because he was unfortunate ? What important event
occurred in America this year ? — 7. What other three battles occurred in
Europe? Relate the battle of Minden. Of Legnitz. Of Torqua. What
was now Frederic's position ?
416
CLOSE OP THE SEVEN YEARS* WAR,
Modern His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. I.
1?60.
Louis XV.
makes a fa-
mily treaty
with
Charles III.
king of
Spain and
Naples.
Fifth cam-
paign.
1761.
Sixth cam-
paign.
1T6».
Peter III.
grandson of
Peter the
Great.
1162.
Catherine
II. his
widow.
1163.
Peace of
Paris,
between
England and
France and
Spain.
the whole of Saxony, where the Prussian king established his
winter quarters.
8. The death of George II., which occurred at this period,
did not affect the relations of England and Prussia. George
III. continued in the same line of policy, being determined to
preserve his German possessions. A change had taken place
in the Spanish councils; — Charles 111., brother of the late
monarch, Ferdinand VJ., having ascended the throne. The
success of the British arms in America now caused to be form-
ed a Family Compact between the Bourbon kings of France and
Spain ; the result of which was war between England and
Spain. Portugal became also involved in this war, by refusing
to join in the compact against England. The king of Prussia
continued the war in Silesia ; and his brother, prince Henry,
in Saxony. In 1761 the Russians and Austrians took Berlin.
Frederic's measures were throughout this campaign, wholly
defensive. At sea, the British flag was still triumphant. Besides
the capture of some vessels, this campaign was signalized by
the conquest of Belle-Isle, on the coast of France.
9. A sudden and unexpected event occurred at this time, in
the death of Elizabeth, empress of Russia, which relieved
Frederic from a dreaded and inveterate enemy. Her nephew,
Peter III., succeeded, who allied himself with the hero of
Prussia, now called " Frederic the Great." Russia and Sweden
also entered into alliance with him ; and the Prussian king
found himself at liberty to turn his whole strength against the
Austrians. But another revolution occurred in Russia. Peter
III. had, by his numerous innovations in the internal adminis-
tration of his kingdom, as well as by his alliance with Frederic,
occasioned great discontent in his empire. Domestic dissen-
sion was added to the evils which surrounded him, and his
empress Catharine, headed a conspiracy of the disaffected
among the clergy, nobility, and army. Peter was dethroned, im-
prisoned, and probably murdered ; and Catharine was invested
with the supreme power. She did not, however, resume the
policy of Elizabeth, but while she recalled the Russians from
the service of Frederic, she preserved the nation in a strict
neutrality.
10. Frederic continued the war with increased energy ; re-
covered Silesia, and invaded Bohemia and Franconia. The
British had been successful at sea, and in America. Negotia-
tions had been in progress between England, and France and
Spain, and a peace was now concluded at Paris. Here was
8. What is here related of England ? Of Spain ? Between whom was
a Family Compact made ? What other powers became involved in war ?
What account can you give of the 5th and 6th campaigns of the seven years'
war ? — 9. What sovereign of Russia had carried on this war against the
Prussians ? Give from the side note the succession of Russian sovereigns ?
When Peter III. succeeded Elizabeth what change occurred in regard to
the relations of the northern powers with Prussia ? What counter move-
ments took place in the succeeding reign ? — lO. Who were the parties to
the peace of Paris ?
A NATION ANNIHILATED.
ceded :: Great Britain. Canada, in its utmost extent, all the
:em side of the Mississippi, except New Orleans and its
territories, the islands of Si. Pierre and Miquelon. and Flo-
rida." Great Britain made some concess:;r= to France in the
partition of the T»Ves: India Islands. Shortly after the conclu-
sion of this treaty, another -was made between Pi
and Sai ly, st Ebtbertst r. which close J me "Seven Yc
War." Silesia was finally ceded to Prussia; all : .
. and each power returned to me boundaries if
: messed at the opening :: me war. Una war ; not onlv
:e Lstated the fair plains of Europe, and drunk the
myriads of her sons, but it had spread destruction through net
dependencies, in Asia and America ; thus sketching . ... e
than half the circuit of ;h e globe id thk lesti . rf the
human race was made, because monarchs, with already much
e :: the world than they could enjoy, coveted stfll orreater
territories; and their thousands tameh followed '.em to be
slaughtered. In pity to their fate, we forbear to say they &•
served it by their follv.
11. PARTITION OF POLAND.— T.V a have seen how m
Poland the err:: :: electing a foreign monarch had led the way
to a system ::" foreign interference. Augustus II.. elector A
~ ■ : 5iarislais Leozinski,by the aid ::'
Russian and Austrian arms. Still mere e Poland a
| : erful party who deprecated foreign influr ee, a ssh a
Polander for their monarch. On the Jeam ::' Augustus, Ca-
raAsufS :: Russia turned this sentiment:: the advantage of
Sttaitislau Poviatowssi. s =epe:s:nal a::.ea:-an:e
and rnepossessing manners . b : red for him her favor ; but
whose character and habits unfitted him for the station. He
having beer : : : : : s e : : ; ft e s m : ress, to fill the P : I isfa thr : n - .
Rnssiarj soldEers, seal : Enforce his e^e::::r. snrrounded the
senate-?-- nse where he : - assembled. Majlachow-
sk:. an azed patriot, and marshal of the last diet, entering the
assembly, where :nly eight senators out of fifty appeared, e ::-
claimed with a loud voi:e. - ; ince me Russian soldier^ hen ns
suspend the authority of the die: " The soldiers ordered
him :. resigni 'hie marshaPs stafX and threatened him with ven-
geance. 3Ialachowski intrepidly replied, -You may cut off
my "rand, or take my life, but I am marshal, ele: te a ee
people, and I can only be deposed by a tree people — I shaH
retire
12. The partisans of PoniatowskL supported by the P
arms, proceeded to an illegal election, and the minion of
marine was made kin?. After the coronation, she maintained
Modem His.
PEBrn vi.
Peace of
Hubert s-
bur?.
- Rn -\
tedei
Spain to
E : .i . i : :
m ----- i e -
stated .-
1783.]
1764-5
10
— 11 .-.-=: pei-
h: . -■-.-- ' H: --■ i i
ii :_z -.r.. ::
S3
418
POLAND RULED BY FOREIGN POWER.
Modern His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. I.
1¥69.
Turks in al-
liance with
the Poles,
invaded by
the Rus-
sians.
Scandalous
partition of
Poland.
Pulaski was
killed at
Savannah.
Oct., 1779.
an ambassador at Warsaw, by whose means she governed the
monarch, 20,000 Russian troops being scattered over the
country. The patriots who left Warsaw before the election,
had attempted to form confederations in different provinces of
the kingdom. They were now permitted to return, and did not
immediately offer any opposition to the government. The favor
of Catharine was shortly withdrawn from the king of Poland,
and she fomented the dissensions which existed between the
dissidents (or protestants,) and catholics, until the unhappy na-
tion was involved in the miseries of a civil war. The leading
patriots were now arrested by the Russian soldiers, and trans-
ported to Siberia. Catharine offered them liberty on condition
of their submitting to the authority of Russia, but they all re-
jected the disgraceful offer with contempt.
13. The Poles next solicited and obtained the aid of the
Turks. The Russian empress declared war with the Porte, and
her fleet sailed through the Mediterranean to rouse the Greeks
to arms, but owing to dissensions among their commanders,
nothing decisive was effected. Two Russian armies, however,
entered and overran a part of the Turkish dominions. This
was discouraging to the Poles, whose army did not exceed
8,000 men, but they had seized the strongest posts among the
mountains, and, under their general, Pulaski, kept the field, and
occasionally annoyed their enemy. In the following year, the
advantages of war still remained with the Russians ; and a short
period of alternate hope and fear was all that was now allowed
for the little band of Polish patriots. They soon learned that
a league had been concluded between Maria Theresa of Austria,
Catharine of Russia, and Frederic of Prussia ; and that these
royal thieves had taken the greater part of their country, and
divided it among themselves, annexing their several portions to
their own dominions. The contemptible Poniatowski, who was
entirely under their control, was by them made sovereign of
the remainder.
] 4. Some of the Poles raised their voices against these ini-
quitous proceedings. The patriot Reyten, finding that all was
lost, was driven by grief to insanity. Protestations were sent
to the other powers of Europe, but were unheeded. The pa-
triot chiefs being obliged to flee, Pulaski crossed the ocean, and
sacrificed his life in the cause of American independence. The
partition of Poland has found no justifiers, even among those
who have considered the many wars in which Europe has been
involved, as being defensible, on the ground of maintaining the
balance of power; a phrase which, as settled by the practices
12. Who was virtually the sovereign of Poland ? How were the patriots
treated ? How was a civil war produced ? — 13. What occurred with regard
to the Turks ? What was the situation of the patriots and their leader ?
Who were the royal robbers here spoken of? What did they take to which
they had no right ? Who was sovereign of the remainder ? — 14-. What
particulars are mentioned of the acts of the patriots ? Where was Pulaski
killed ? (See note.) Has the partition of Poland been justified ?
PITT, AFTERWARDS LORD CHATHAM. 419
which have grown out of it, seems to mean a combination of a Modem ms.
few families, to maintain each other in their hereditary autho- perpd vi.
rity ; thus making Europe a grand aristocracy, the members of chap. n.
which are called kings instead of nobles. The great plan of ^-"»~v~%^
Henry IV. of France, had it been established, would not, like
the American constitution, have guarantied to the people their
rights of self-government, but it would have given them much
security against the horrors of war, and saved the blood of
countless thousands.
CHAPTER If.
England and France, and their Colonies.
1714
to
1. The domestic history of England during the reign of Geor
George II., is a catalogue of the political knaveries of the min- _i
ister, Sir Robert Walpole, who made, no scruple to spend
the public money, and increase the national debt, that he might \y%i
practice every species of bribery and corruption which was cal- Great-
culated to keep himself in power. At length he became odious |onn?o
to the nation, and changes in the ministry occurred; but the James i.
course of politics was not yet reformed. About this period,
the war against France, carried on in America, commenced. At
first it was managed without spirit or success. At length, to
prop up their sinking credit, the ministry called to a seat in the Ge°*se
cabinet, William Pitt, a leader in parliament, distinguished for W'Z*t
his high powers of eloquence ; but to their surprise, they found - Jj{*A
he had accepted a post of honor to serve his country, and that
neither office nor money could tempt him to countenance mea-
sures which he did not approve. Rather than do this, he re-
signed his offices and retired. The nation were clamorous in
his praise, and petitioned the king to recall him. Pitt was re-
called and made prime minister. From this period, Great Bri- *™0*
tain rose rapidly. Men were appointed to office, not because in.
they were the creatures of those in power, but because they 1156.
were suited to the service, and were true friends to their coun- pdmJmfn-
try. France and England during this period, came into colli- ister. He is
sion from difficulties commencing in their distant colonies of made a"eer
India and America. *lt*m\ot
2. INDIA. — The fabulous computation of time contained in Chatham.
14. What meaning seems now to attach in Europe, to the phrase, bal-
ance of power ? What is said of the plan of Henry IV. ?
Chap. II. — Learn from the side note who were the three first sovereigns
of the house of Hanover, and the time of the accession of each ? — 1. What
may be said of the domestic history of England at this time ? What account
can you give of William Pitt ? Of the effect of his ministry ? In what
places did the English and French come into collision?
420
BABER, THE FIRST GREAT MOGUL.
Modem His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
1206.
1414.
Sayid khan.
1526.
Baber.
1530.
Hu-
mayun.
1556.
Akbar.
1605.
(Shah
Jehan,
son of
Akbar,
has four
sons,
the last,
Aureng-
Zeb, de-
stroys
the
others.)
the sacred books and traditionary accounts of India, go back to
ages far beyond those indicated either by Scripture, or by the
course of profane history. Then, say they, the immortal gods
dwelt on the earth. Their reign was immediately succeeded
by a dynasty of mortals descended from the sun, and more re-
motely by a family from the moon. Krishna, a demi-god, the
author of the Vedas and other sacred books, lived in the time
of the lunar dynasty. After this they had earth-born kings, of
whom Porus was on the throne when Alexander of Macedon
invaded India, and Sandrocottus became the ally of Seleucus.
Fifty years before Christ, was a reign distinguished as an era,
on account of the encouragement given to literature, when nine
writers flourished, called " the nine gems," one of whom wrote
a lexicon of the language, and another a grammar. At the
Christian era, India was divided into four kingdoms, and subse-
quently into a greater number. In the tenth century the Ghaz-
nevide sultans, supplanted by the Turks, invaded India ; and in
the next century, Bahram established a kingdom whose seat
was Lahore. Jenghiz Khan passed over India, and added it to
his conquests,
3. The Mahometan kingdom of Delhi was founded by a
Turkish prince, who overthrew the kingdom of Lahore. This
empire was subverted by Tamerlane, who took and plundered
Delhi. Sayid Khan ruled at first as his viceroy, but soon be-
came independent and founded another Mahometan dynasty,
called, the Jiffghan. Baber is, however, regarded as the foun-
der of the wealthiest, and most powerful dynasty which has
ever reigned in India. He was a descendant of Tamerlane, who
having been driven from his kingdom at the north, invaded
India, expelled the Affghans, and founded the Tartar dynasty
of the Great Moguls. Akbar, the grandson of Baber, raised the
empire to great prosperity by his wise government and judicious
patronage of the arts. In 1600 there were English traders at
Surat.
4. Shah Jehan, the successor of Akbar, was governed by the
sultana Nourmahal. In 1602, the " Dutch East India Com-
pany" was formed. In 1609, admiral Hawkins, their first en-
voy, procured for the English Company some important grants.
Aureng-Zeb, was noted for his energy and his cruelty. The
empire of the Moguls was in his day one of the richest in the
St. What computation of time is found in the sacred books and tradi-
tionary accounts of India ? What do these say concerning the inhabitants
of the earth in that remote antiquity ? What is said of Krishna ? What of
the kings after him ? What occurred fifty years before Christ ? What at the
Christian era respecting the division of India ? What occurred in the tenth
century ? Where did the Ghaznevides establish a kingdom ? Who con-
quered India, and at what time ? — 3. What empire was founded by a
Turkish sovereign? What was done by Tamerlane? By Sayid Khan,
and of what dynasty did he become the founder ? Give an account of Ba-
ber. How did Akbar raise the empire to prosperity ? How early do you
hear of the English in India, and at what place ? — 4. What do you learn of
Shah Jehan? At what time was the Dutch East India Company formed?
What is said of the first English envoy to the court of the Great Mogul?
THE BRITISH EMPIRE IN INDIA.
world ; its revenue being £32,000,000. But he persecuted the
ancient inhabitants who refused to embrace Mahometanism, and
by losing their good will, he lost the cement which bound to-
gether the great empire of the Moguls ; and after his death, one
province after another fell away from his successors. Their
indolence was taxed with the loss of their power by the na-
bobs, on whom they devolved their duties ; and in a few years,
the Grand Mogul was but a state-puppet, moving as he was
moved. At this time India was invaded by the powerful Nadir
Shah of Persia, who took Delhi, and carried away a great booty
in money and jewels.
5. The Mahrattas, an active and energetic people, heretofore
but little known, conquered, in 1668, a part of the Deccan, and,
under Sevajee, established a kingdom. This kingdom they
continued to extend during the next century. The French, under
Labourdonnais, governor of the isle of France, made an attack
on the English trading settlement at Madras, and took the place,
but restored it at the peace of Aix-la-Chapelle. The French
having possession of Pondicherry, Dupleix, its commander,
seeing the divided state of the country, attempted, by taking
part with one of two rivals, to seize the Deccan as if for the
other, but in reality for the French East India Company. The
other party was Mahomet Ali, who appealed to the English.
The French had the advantage, until Clive, who came from
England as a clerk, having manifested military talent, was made
a captain. He took Jlrcot, and won the battle of Ami ; after
which a truce was made.
6. The English at Calcutta, were now suddenly attacked by
Surajah Dowlah, the sovereign of the province of Bengal, at
the head of 50,000 men. The governor vainly resisted, and
then escaped on shipboard, leaving behind two hundred of the
garrison. These were confined in a room not twenty feet
square, in a hot night in June, with no water, and scarcely a
breath of air. In vain they shrieked, for the tyrant had no pity.
In this " Black Hole of Calcutta," one hundred and eighty men
died in the course of the night. India has paid dearly for this
cruelty. The Company at Madras sent Clive at the head of a
small army, who retook Calcutta, and reduced Surajah to terms.
The seven years' war now breaking out, the French were again
active and Surajah united with them. Clive met his army at
Plassey, and with only 1,000 English, and 3,000 natives, de-
feated 70,000. Surajah was taken and put to death, and the
British became virtually masters of his territory. Thus began
the British empire in India. Its permanence was secured when
the British having increased their conquests, the Great Mogul
4. Give an account of Aureng-Zeb. How did he prepare the way for the
decline of the empire ? What happened after his death ? What tax do you
find that indolent sovereigns who devolve their own duties upon their ser-
vants have to pay? Give an account of the Persian invasion. — 5. Give an
account of the Mahrattas. Of the proceedings of the French. — 6. Of the
cruel proceedings of Sarajah Dowlah. How did the English Company re-
trieve their affairs ? Relate the important battle of Plassey.
421
Modern His.
1730.
1739.
These
events led
to war be-
tween Eng-
land and
France.
Clive takes
Arcot, the
capital of
the Car-
natic.
ARM.
Clive
victori-
ous.
1756.
"The Black
Hole." 180
die.
(Clive, af-
terwards
Lord Clive,
becomes
immensely
rich. Cen-
sured by
parliament,
commits
suicide.)
1757.
PLASSEY.
Clive de-
feats
Surajah.
422
TRIAL OF WARREN HASTINGS.
Modern His-
PERPD VI.
CHAP. II.
Indefinite
claims of
the French
and English.
or emperor, granted them at the peace of All a hah ad, the pro-
vinces of Bengal, Bahar, and Oris-sa.
7. The English came into collision with Hyder Ali, a power-
ful chief, who had founded the new kingdom of Mysore. In
1773 parliament sent Mr. Warren Hastings, as governor-ge-
neral over the provinces of Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay.
Soon after this, the French settlements at Pondecherry and else-
where, were taken by the English, and Hyder Ali, who had
ravaged the Carnatic, was completely defeated by Sir Eyre
Coote. Hyder was succeeded by his son, Tippoo Saib. The
English, though he long resisted, at length defeated him ; and
driving him into Seringapatam, his capital, they took it by storm ;
he bravely losing his life in its defense. His immense treasures,
and his territory, became the prey of the conquerors. Warren
Hastings was accused of mal-practices and recalled to England,
where he was impeached by the eloquent Edmund Burke ; and
being tried before parliament, he was defended by the idol of
the whig party, Charles James Fox, the witty Sheridan, and
others. The trial lasted eight years, and the accused was finally
acquitted. William Pitt, the younger, now prime minister
of England, proposed, and carried through parliament an im-
proved system of government for -British India, under the direc-
tion of a " Board of Control."
8. AMERICA. — We have seen that the English discovered in
America the Atlantic coast ; the French, the St. Lawrence and
its waters, and afterwards the upper Mississippi. That disco-
very gave the right of soil none disputed ; but the boundaries
of the countries claimed on account of these discoveries, were
wholly indefinite, and each nation was ambitious of possessing
large territories. Hence, they took care in granting the letters
patent to their subjects, who were disposed to colonize the
country, to make their claims sufficiently extensive. Thus se-
veral of the English patents which bounded east on the Atlantic,
gave the patentees the country as far west as the Pacific ; while
the French, in some instances, gave patents running from th<
St. Lawrence, indefinitely, south. While the settlements kept
along the shore of the ocean, and the valley of the St. Law-
rence, they caused no dispute ; but now the English, having
extended themselves to the west, and the French to the south,
their claims interfered. The English jealousy was also awak-
ened by finding a line of posts extending from the mouth of
the St. Lawrence to that of the Mississippi, projected and partly
T. What is said respecting Hyder Ali? Respecting the French ? Re-
specting Tippoo Saib ? Warren Hastings ? Who impeached him? Who
defended ? Learn from the side note what formed the capital article in his
impeachment. What bill did Mr. Pitt procure to be passed ? — 8. What
have you learned from the previous history concerning the English and
French discoveries ? What right was supposed to be given by discovery ?
What source of contention existed with regard to boundaries? What kind
of patents were granted by the English 1 By the French ? What circum-
stances alarmed the English with regard to the great extent of the French
claims in America ?
MAJOR WASHINGTON.
423
made by the French ; which, if completed, would establish their Modern His-
authority over the great valley of the west. This was pom- peri'D vi.
pously exhibited in the large maps of De Lisle, the royal geo- CHAP- u-
grapher, as a part of New France. By these maps, the Alle- ^-^"v^w
ghany mountains were removed from their place, and set near SftafSo1
the Atlantic ; the strip of land between them and the ocean, in Maine,'
being all that was allowed to belong to the English <• while ufe^enfte^
New France stretched, in grand letters, from the mouth of the bec> andaii
St. Lawrence to that of the Mississippi. The valley of the eas_
Mobile was also claimed by France, a settlement having been ^JJJie
made at its mouth by Canadian French, under Le Moine founded by
liii,.-™-.,.,. , _, d'Iberville.
d'Iberville.
9. Determined to resist these claims, the English parliament 175©.
granted to a company of gentlemen, mostly in Virginia, of whom
Lawrence Washington was one, 600,000 acres of land, on company
or near the Ohio river. "The Ohio Company" sent their agents ^wiaSg-
to take possession of the territory. The Marquis du Quesne, ton, (brother
governor of Canada, first threatened, and next seized and impri- t0 Geor6e->
soned those who had erected trading-houses on these lands.
Dinwiddie, the English governor of Virginia, sent, though in ^Jjjjf Jon
the dead of winter, a young officer of twenty-two, across the crosses the
wilderness of the Alleghany mountains, to bear despatches to Alle§hames-
the French commandant. This young man was George
Washington, destined to become the " Father of his Country," w^JhYngt'on
and one of the chief lights of history. Major Washington sent against
fulfilled his trust, by conveying to the French commandant in the Flench-
the vicinity of lake Erie, Dinwiddie's summons to quit the ter-
ritory. The French not obeying this mandate, Dinwiddie sent
Washington, with a regiment, to enforce it. Although his con-
duct was gallant, his force was inferior, and he was unsuccess-
ful. The French now proceeded to the erection of a fort at the
junction of the Monongahela and Alleghany rivers; to which
they gave the name of Du Quesne. 1*754.
] 0. The British cabinet recommended to the colonies to cul- Co£fbrany at
tivate friendship with the most powerful tribes of the savages, (Franklin is
and to form a union among themselves. Accordingly, a congress ed*asl?phi-
of delegates from the colonies of New England, met at Albany, losopher, for
with those from New York, Maryland, and Pennsylvania; and ^rieain
on the 4th of July, 1754, Benjamin Franklin, of Pennsylva- electricity
nia, drew up a plan of union, which being approved by the J,e most
congress, copies were transmitted to the several colonial go- universal
i r /->. t-»-- t-j i geniuses of
vernments, and to the court ol Great Britain. It suited not the history.)
8. Describe the map of De Lisle, mentioning who he was. On what
grounds was the valley of the Mobile claimed by France ? — 9. What was
none by parliament in order to set up counter claims and resist those of
France? What was done by the Ohio Company? By the French Go-
vernor? Mention his name. Who was governor of Virginia? What
measures did he take ? What is here said of George Washington ? What
was the result of his mission across the Alleghany ? — lO. What was the
occasion of delegates meeting at Albany ? What colonies sent delegates to
this congress? What plan was drawn up, and by whom ? What was the
reason of its rejection in England ?
424 THE INFANCY OF AMERICAN FREEDOM.
Modem His, colonies, because it granted too much power to the crown ; it
peri'D vi. suited not the English ministry, because it gave too little, and
chap. n. it was mutually rejected. Thus was tested that inherent differ-
^-^^fc^ ence of opinion between the colonies and mother country, on
matters of government, which eventually separated them.
11. The course of history has led us to remark from what
quartets the opposition to arbitrary power had originated in
Causes of Europe ; and it is curious to observe, that it was precisely from
thcanfree~ those quarters that these colonies were originally peopled. It
spirit. was when the despotic proceedings of James I. and Charles I.
had roused the patriots of England to assert their rights, that
some, unwilling to make disturbance in their native land, and
yet determined to enjoy their civil and religious rights, found a
home on the rude coasts of New England. Just after the
Lord," says Dutch had resisted the tyranny of Spain, nobly contending for
early wd- liberty, colonies from Holland came and settled on the banks
ters, "sifted of the Hudson. When the protestants of France strove for
tionsfbr" freedom from the civil oppression and religious persecutions
good seed to 0f the Guises and Bourbons, they made settlements in the south;
wilder- and when episcopacy took the rod of persecution from the ca-
ness.) tholics, in the days of Charles I., the peaceful Calvert, (lord
Baltimore,) came with a colony, and found a refuge where
the city now stands which bears his name.
12. Arrived in America, almost every man was an agricul-
turist ; — not poor., for he lived on his own domain, and ac-
knowledged no other lord of his land, than the Lord of the
America whole earth ; yet he was obliged to be industrious to live, and
democratic. to De watchful and valiant, to escape the terrible savage who
(No great in- ambushed his path and his dwelling. Thus the infant princi-
7e$nour pies of manly independence found a home in America, and thus
we'cannoV were tnev schooled to a vigorous maturity. The court of
as in feudal Great Britain had, on various occasions, seen them manifested,
Chaveran' mucn to their annoyance. They had allowed at first, without
aristocracy suspicion of the consequences, the free, and equal citizens of
would.) the new world to form confederacies, on the simple principles
of natural justice, of equal rights, and mutual defence. The of-
fices of the country were not then marks for ambition, but posts
of difficulty and danger; reluctantly, in most instances, ac-
cepted, and gladly relinquished.
1685. 13. At length, under James If., the court of Great Britain
sir Ed™und having grown jealous, interfered, and sent Sir Edmund Andros
"over by" over as governor-general of the offending provinces. And after
James ii. the change in the government of Massachusetts, made by Wil-
liam III., it was enjoined upon the colonies to compensate the
lO. In the colonies? What was tested by this? — 11. What have we
been led to remark? What is said of the English? The Dutch? The
French ? The protestants and the catholics? — 12. What was the condition
of the early settlers? What principles had thus found a home and been
matured ? How was the court of Great Britain affected by them ? How
was it with the offices of the country ? — 13. Give an account of the measures
taken by the British court to repress an independent spirit.
THE OLD FRENCH WAR. 425
services of the royal governor. This was a source of disafTec- Mode™ His.
tion; but the colonists proportioning their pay of the royal perpd vi.
officers, to their opinion of their good behavior, still ordered chap. u.
political affairs much in their own way. The English next v"^^>^^^
instructed their governors to demand fixed salaries. This, the
unyielding spirit of the colonial assembly would never grant;
and Massachusetts thenceforth became an object of special dis-
like to the British government. Such was the character of the
men who met at Albany, in July 1754 ; and whom, not even the 1T54.
pressure of a coming war, and an exterminating savage enemy, Albany.
could induce to frame a government acceptable to the court
of Great Britain. That nation, however, felt that the colonies
were her own. General Braddock was accordingly dis- J755"
patched to Virginia with 1500 men, — which reinforced by the dock>s-
colonial militia, under Washington, proceeded through the de- En^{f ^"aiid
sert to attack fort Du Quesne. The British general, ignorant Americans
of the terrible character of the American savage as a foe, and re- ^Indians!
jecting all advice from the colonial commander, fell into an am-
bush, and was slaughtered with more than half his army. The
colonists alone retreated in order from the field, under the con-
duct of the intrepid Washington, — who on the day of the battle
had four bullets lodged in his clothes, and was the only officer
on horseback who escaped unhurt.
14. In the meantime, the French had sent out the raron fort
Dieskau with a formidable force. He advanced from Montreal E®^son'
by the way of the lakes Champlain and George, to attack fort and Lyman
Edward, on the Hudson. Here the colonial forces under gene- kau^French
rals Johnson and Lyman, met and defeated his army with the loss, 700 k.,
loss of 1,000 men ; among whom was Dieskau himself. These kau mortal-
operations in America were one of the movinff causes of the '* wounded.
" Seven Years' War" declared in 1756 5 in which, as we have * ?
seen, England united with Prussia against France and her Years* War
allies. In 1757, colonel Monroe, a British officer, was be- b|J™pe™
sieged in fort William Henry by the marquis Montcalm, at 1757.
the head of 9,000 men. Monroe capitulated, but had not yet Massacre at
left the fort, from which he was guarantied a safe conduct, when f Henry/on1
a massacre was begun by the Indians in Montcalm's army, lake George,
which he could not, or would not restrain. No pen can de-
scribe the horrors of that midnight butchery ; where the sick,
the wounded, men, women, and infants, all bled beneath the
tomahawk and the scalping-knife.
15. George II., now aroused in earnest, and recalling Pitt, 1158.
made him prime minister. He sent out, in a fleet commanded bSmjwhi
by admiral Boscawen, a reinforcement of 14,000 men, under brings over
the command of general Amherst. These, together with the ^erst!""
British and colonial forces already in America, made 50,000
13. How were they met by the colonists? What was, however, done
by England to aid the colonies ? What occurred at Braddock's-field ? — 14:.
What at fort Edward? What war in Europe in part originated here?
What melancholy event marked the succeeding campaign of 1757 ? — 15.
What reinforcements did the army receive, and to what number did it
amount ?
54
426
THE FRENCH WAR.
Modem His-
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
1?59.
Ticortde-
roga, Crown
Point, and
Niagara
taken. (Pri-
deaux killed
at Niagara.)
HEIGHTS
OF ABRA-
HAM.
Wolfe de-
feats the
French, and
Quebec sur-
renders.
1764-
Lord Gren-
ville.
(His minis-
try con-
tinues from
1763-65.)
1765.
Stamp Act
Lo go into ef-
fect Nov. 1.
men, a much greater army than had before been employed in
this country. Louisburg was a strong fortress, which com-
manded the entrance of the gulf of St. Lawrence. In the last
war the colonists had themselves, with singular bravery and
much good luck, taken it from the French ; but the British had
restored it at the peace of Ryswick. Admiral Boscawen now
besieged and took the place with 7,000 prisoners. The other
important events of this campaign, were the taking of fort Fron-
tenac, by colonel Brad street, and that of fort Du Quesne,
by general Forbes, assisted by Washington. That fort re-
ceived at this time, the name of Pitt, which is still preserved in
that of Pittsburg.
16. During; the campaign of 1759, general Amherst captured
Ticonderoga and Crown Point; and general Pride aux, fort
Niagara. But the most difficult part was assigned by Pitt, who
was the soul of these enterprises, to James Wolfe, a young
officer, whom he took the responsibility of sustaining, against
the prejudices of the king. With an army of 8,000, Wolfe
landed on the island of Orleans, with the formidable task before
him of reducing Quebec, the strongest fortress in America.
On the night of the twelfth of September, he scaled the heights
of Abraham, a rock deemed inaccessible, — and his army follow-
ing their daring leader. The marquis Montcalm saw, by the
morning light, his enemy upon the elevated plain in order of
battle. Victory declared for the English. Wolfe, mortally
wounded, rejoiced in his country's success; and Montcalm, in
dying, was consoled, that he should not witness the surrender
of Quebec. The garrison of that city were panic struck, and
surrendered a post which they might have defended. All
Canada soon submitted to the British arms ; and its possession
was confirmed at the peace of Paris, in 1763.
17. In 1764, lord Grenville brought into parliament a bill
for taxing the colonies. The next year, the " Stamp Act" was
passed by the parliament, notwithstanding able remonstrances
on the part of the colonies and of the London merchants. The
Stamp Act was framed with an intention to suspend the opera-
tion of the laws in the colonies, and dissolve the bonds of go-
vernment unless complied with ; for it decreed, that no deed,
note, bond, indenture, or other covenant, should be legal, — no
process, not even against a criminal, could be issued^ unless
written on the stamped paper which the English should send
over to certain officers, called Distributers of Stamps, and which
must be purchased by the Americans at such a rate as to give
the British government a revenue from the proceeds. The Ame-
15. What had been done in the preceding war respecting Louisburg?
What was done in 1758 ? What are the other principal events of this cam-
pajgn ?_16. What was done by general Amherst ? What by general Pri-
deaux « W hat is here said of James Wolfe ? Give some account of his ope-
rations. Relate the battle of the Heights of Abraham. What were its re-
sults?—17. Relate the first attempt in the British parliament to tax
America. Give an account of the Stamp Act.
CHAP. II.
THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR BEGINS. 427
ricans regarded this as an attempt to take from them their just Modern His.
rights. Most of the colonies elected delegates, who met in perpd vi.
congress in the city of New York. In a formal " Declaration
of Rights," the congress asserted that they were entitled to all
the rights and privileges of natural born subjects of Great Bri-
tain,— in particular, that of not being taxed except by their own
representatives. They prepared a dutiful address to the king,
and petitions to both nouses of parliament. A systematic and
uniform opposition was made to the Stamp Act. The peo-
ple not only refused to purchase the stamps, but so treated those
who took the offices of distributors, that they were forced to
resign.
18. The English government, thus foiled, changed their min-
istry and repealed the Stamp Act ; but parliament declared their B^V?Jl
" right to bind the colonies in all cases whatsoever." A new tempt to tax
project, for taxation was soon got up, with the appendage of Amerlca-
sending troops over to enforce it. Duties were laid on tea, &c.
Tea was sent over, — and at Boston, men, armed and disguised, 'O^'
went at night and threw the cargoes of three vessels into the overboardat
sea ; — for which parliament shut up their port by law, and sent Boston-
over general Gage with an army. Non-importation agreements
were entered into by all the colonies.
19. Gen. Gage had been sent to Massachusetts in the spirit 1775.
of hostility to that province. The people viewed his move- isx/JV'o-
ments with jealousy and alarm; and preparing to resist, had col- tojv.
lected warlike stores in different places. In an attempt of the Firghed?°
British troops to take possession of the magazines at Concord, Br. loss, 273.
in the neighborhood of Boston, hostilities commenced, and the m*
first blood was shed. The militia rose, and although they
could not prevent the destruction of the stores, yet they drove
the British back to their strongholds in Boston, with loss. But
this first blood was like the spark which ignites the magazine. ( ^ad hired*1
The indignant country took arms; and in a few weeks twenty 17,ooohos-
thousand militia were assembled in the neighborhood of Boston. slan roops'
The British army was largely reinforced by troops under gene-
ral Howe.
20. The " Continental Congress" assembled at Philadelphia. Washington
They took measures to raise men and money, and conferred the sionedTiune
command of their armies on Washington. The militia, to 15th-
drive the British troops from Boston, took, in the night, posses- J^j^!h'
sion of Bunker's Hill, a position which commanded the town, ker's-
As soon as they were perceived, general Gage sent a force to Br. gain the
drive them from the entrenchments which they were throwing jjeldj Jjj .
— the Am. 453.
IT. How did the Americans regard it? Where did the congress first
meet ? What acts of theirs are here mentioned ? What was done in rela-
tion to the Stamp Act? — 18. What change was made by the British go-
vernment ? What was done in parliament ? What was done respecting
tea ? Who was sent over to Boston ? What agreements were entered into ?
. 19. Describe the occasion and place of the first battle, and its result ? What
effect did it produce ? — SO. What occurred at Philadelphia ? What is the
difference in time between Washington's commission as commander-in-
chief, and the battle of Bunker's Hill? (See note.)
428
THE BRITISH EVACUATE BOSTON.
Modern His.
PERI'D VI.
CHAP. II.
Unsuccess-
ful attempt
upon
Canada.
WW.
March 17.
Gage
evacuates
Boston.
up. Under cover of their ships lying in the harbor, and of the
flames of Charlestown, which they had fired, three thousand of
the British troops ascended the hill and attacked the Americans,
who were commanded by colonel Prescott. The result of
the day was honorable to the republicans, although, from the
failure of ammunition, they were obliged to retire.
21. Gen. Montgomery and Col. Arnold were despatched at
the head of separate armies for the conquest of Canada. Mon-
treal, and the fortress of St. John surrendered to Montgomery.
Advancing down the St. Lawrence, — at Quebec, he met Arnold,
who had taken the direct route through the woods. In the
depth of winter their joint forces attacked that fortress ; — Mont-
gomery fell, and the enterprise failed.
22. Washington, at the head of a formidable force, had, the
preceding season, appeared before Boston, — taken possession of
the adjacent heights, and invested the British forces. He con-
tinued the siege through the winter, and on the 17th of March,
Gage was forced to evacuate the town. The enemy, taking to
their shipping, commenced a marauding warfare, and burnt
Falmouth, Bristol, and other towns on the sea-board. Wash-
ington entered Boston in triumph ; but he afterwards established
his head quarters at New York, — stationing a part of the army,
under generals Putnam and Sullivan, at Brooklyn.
20. Relate that battle. — 21. Relate the attempt upon Canada. — 22.
The operations in and about Boston. What was done on the 17th of
March? What afterwards by the British? What was done by Wash-
ington ?
"estJtt>ijit\l,£'
JR)'
[cievelaik n^a^ ""fM . SPJ)))-)
5 S^«d
Longitude West ]0 from Washington. 5
35
30
0 Longitude East. 5
H. Kinnersley.
Washington assuming the command at Cambridge.
PERIOD VII.
THE DECLARATION BY? l^fl £ 0F AMERICAN INDE-
CONGRESS 5 C PENBENCE,
^1804:.^(
THE CORONATION > 1804:. \ OF NAPOLEON
CHAPTER I.
Republic of America after the Declaration of Independence, to the adop-
tion of the Federal Constitution.
1. The 4th of July, 1776, is the birth day of our Republic ;
which is remarkable, not only as the oldest civilized nation of
the western continent, but for the extent of its territory, the
rapid increase of its population and resources, and especially for
its political institutions, which have exhibited, in practice, a
government of natural justice, and equal rights, heretofore re-
garded but as the vision of the enthusiast. On that memora-
ble day, the American congress, still environed with difficulties,
took, with solemnity, the bold measure of declaring that,
u America was, and of right ought to be, free and independ-
ent." The most disastrous defeat of the war followed hard
upon this declaration. That division of the army commanded
by Sullivan, on Long Island, was surprised and defeated with
great loss. Washington, threatened in New York, retreated into
the interior. The British generals, Howe and Clinton, follow-
ed him to White Plains, where an indecisive engagement took
place. But at Fort Washington, which was commanded by
Part VII.— Chap. I. — 1. What is the birth-day of the American Re-
public ? For what is this Republic remarkable ? Why is the 4th of July,
1776, called the birth-day of this nation? Relate the most disastrous de-
feat of the war. What was done by Washington after the battle of Long
Island ? What occurred at White Plains? At Fort Washington?
431
Modern His.
PER'D VII.
CHAP. I.
August 27.
BROOK-
LYJf.
British de-
feat the
Americans,
loss 2,000,
Br. loss 400.
432
burgoyne's invasion.
Modern His.
PER'D VII.
CHAP. I.
1776.
Washing-
ton's re-
treat.
Night of
Dec. 26-27.
TREN-
TON.
Washington
surprises
and takes
1,000 Hes-
sians ; Am.
loss 4, 2
frozen to
death.
January 3.
PRINCE-
TON.
Br. loss 100
k., 300 pris.;
Am. loss 70,
Gen. Mercer
killed.
Sept. 11.
BRANDY-
WINE.
Br. victori-
ous ; Am.
loss 1,300,
Br. 500.
GERMAN-
TOWN.
Br. victori-
ous ; Am.
loss k. 200,
w. 600, pri-
soners 400.
July 7,
HUB-
BARD-
TON.
American
loss 1000.
August 16.
BEN-
NING-
TON.
Am. victo-
rious, Br.
loss 600.
Sept. 19.
STILL-
WATER.
October 7.
SARATO-
GA,
Burgoyne
defeated by
the Ameri-
cans, severe
loss on both
sides.
Col. Magaw, the British took the fort with 2,000 prisoners.
Howe was now commander-in-chief of the British forces.
2. The garrison of Fort Lee evacuated that post, and, under
Greene, joined the desponding army of Washington, who
crossed the Hudson, and retreated into New Jersey, his forces
greatly reduced, and in want of almost everything necessary
for a winter's campaign. He continued to retreat before his vic-
torious enemy, who tracked his bare-footed army by their blood
left on the projections of the frozen ground, till he had crossed
the Delaware into Pennsylvania. On the stormy night of the
26th of December, Washington re-crossed the Delaware amidst
floating ice, and attacked 1,000 Hessians stationed at Trenton,
and made them prisoners. Then eluding the pursuit of the
British army, he fell upon, and surprised another division sta-
tioned at Princeton. These brilliant successes, following such
a train of misfortunes, like a sudden light amidst darkness, re-
vived the drooping spirits of the Americans. They were cheered
also, by the arrival of the young and generous La Fayette,
who had left, in France, all that, to an ordinary mind, makes
existence desirable, and brought to lay upon the altar of right
and justice, his life, his exertions, and his fortune. Washing-
ton received, and ever loved him as a son.
3. France, Spain, and Holland, now began to regard the
cause of America with favor ; and negotiations were commenced
with these powers. General Howe, approaching Philadelphia by
the way of the Chesapeake, defeated Washington at the Brandy-
wine on the 11th of September, and entered the city. He was
again successful at Germantown on the 4th of October. Gen.
Burgoyne, with a formidable army, made up of British regu-
lars, and Indian and Hessian allies, had made a descent from
Canada. He opened a communication above Lake Champlain,
and took Ticonderoga. General Fraser, who was despatched
in pursuit of the flying garrison, came up with their rear at
Hubbardton, and after a sanguinary conflict, the British obtained
their last victory in that quarter. Shortly after this battle, Co-
lonels Baum and Breyman were detached by Burgoyne, with a
corps of Hessians, in search of provisions, and ordered to ad-
vance upon Bennington. They were met near that place by
general Stark, a militia officer, and totally defeated. After
encountering severe losses, and great hardships, Burgoyne ar-
rived at Stillwater, upon the Hudson. Here a battle occurred,
in which he was defeated by the Americans, under general
2. What was done by general Greene ? Relate the situation and move-
ments of Washington and his army. Did he sit down in despondency ?
(See for an answer what he did on the cold and stormy night of the 26th of
December, and ten days afterwards.) What change in the tone of public
feeling is noticed ? What arrival of a foreigner added to the public satisfac-
tion?— 3. What foreign nations now began to regard favorably the Ameri-
can cause ? Relate the successes of the British in Pennsylvania ? Begin
the history of Burgoyne's invasion. Relate the battle of Hubbardton.
Of Bennington. Of Stillwater. Of Saratoga. What important event
followed the battle of Saratoga ?
REVOLUTIONARY WAR CONTINUES. 433
Gates. The British commander found retreat impossible, Modem ffis.
and on the 17th of October, he was compelled to surrender his per'd vii.
whole army prisoners of war. This expedition cost the British, chap. i.
in killed, wounded, deserters and prisoners, an army of 9,000 ^-^^v-"^
men. It inspirited the Americans, and disposed the European Treaty
nations to favor their cause ; and a treaty of alliance loith France with
was entered into on the 6th of February, 1778. France.
4. Washington being now re-inforced, compelled Sir Henry WW-
Clinton, who had succeeded Howe, to evacuate Philadelphia ; JjJojv?'
and pursuing him on his retreat, he came up with him, and de- mouth.
feated him at Monmouth. Clinton now turned his chief atten- victorious!
tion to the conquest of the southern states. He sent a detach- B i,jj#ss2g00'
ment of troops under colonel Campbell, who, on the 29th savannah
of December, took Savannah ; the garrison and stores falling tal^rnitisyhthe
into his hands. The British authority was now extended over
Georgia. To Charleston, in South Carolina, Washington had
sent general Lincoln to the aid of governor Rutledge.
In April, Clinton, with a force of about eight thousand men, *^f ®'
laid siege to it, and on the 12th of May, the city was sur- Charleston
rendered, with the artillery and garrison. Clinton organized taken.
a royal government for Carolina ; and distributed 4,000 troops
in different garrisons; then leaving lord Cornwallis in com-
mand, he returned to his head quarters in New York.
5. General Gates being sent to stop the progress of the Bri-
tish army in the South, was defeated at Camden by lord Corn- ^Jj^jy.
wallis. The baron De Kalb, a gallant German volunteer in Lord com-
the American army, was slain. After this disaster general f^*" gates.
Greene was appointed to the command of the southern armies. ITSi-
At Guilford, he skilfully contended with Cornwallis, and though FqjF^LqIL
not victorious, he retired from the field in good order. Corn- Greene
wallis retreated into Virginia, leaving lord Rawdon in Caro- ™aingC0B?.~
lina to sustain the royal cause, now on the decline. Becoming keep jhe
discouraged with fatigue, loss of health, and the obloquy he ioSS 1,300'
had incurred by the execution of colonel Hayne, a native
Carolinian, Rawdon returned to England; when the command eutaw
devolved on colonel Stuart. Greene, in the meantime, ^2'
having improved the discipline of his troops, sought the enemy, victorious;
and fought and defeated him at Eutaw Springs. AmfVo.
6. On leaving the Carolinas, lord Cornwallis entered Virgi-
nia, threatening chastisement to " the boy." So he termed La checked by
Fayette, who, having been by Congress made a major general, J^ayette,
now commanded the small body of American forces assigned
for the defence of that state. But he showed himself a veteran
3. What great results were produced by this signal success ?— 4. Who
had succeeded Howe in command ? What was he compelled to do ? Re-
late the battle of Monmouth ? What occurred on the 29th of December?
Relate the capture of Charleston. The subsequent arrangements of Clinton.
—5. What is here said of general Gates ? Relate the battle of Camden.
As Gates was unsuccessful, who was sent, in his place? Relate the battle
of Guilford Court House. What change of commandants occurred in South
Carolina? Relate the battle of Eutaw Springs.— 6. What occurred in
Virginia ?
55
434
AMERICAN PwE VOLUTION CLOSES.
.Modern His-
PER'D VII.
CHAP. I.
1181.
October 1-9.
YORK-
to jvjst.
Cornwallis
surrenders
his army of
7,000.
1183.
Peace of
Paris.
1183.
Army dis-
bands.
in courage and skill ; not only eluding the pursuit of the British
general, but rinding means to harrass his outposts incessantly,
and to hold him in check, until the plans forming by Washing-
ton for his destruction, should be matured.
7. Washington had, by a well managed feint, deceived Sir
Henry Clinton into the belief that New York was his desig-
nated point of attack. Admiral de Grasse, with a formidable
French fleet, was ordered to block up York river, so as to pre-
vent reinforcements reaching Cornwallis who was posted at
Yorktown. In the meantime, the American commander, having
formed a junction with a French army, which had arrived the
year before, under count Rochambeau, arrived, by forced
marches, at Yorktown, and invested the British army by
land. Cornwallis made vigorous efforts to extricate himself,
but in vain. The chivalry of America and France were upon
him, each vieing with the other in feats of intrepidity. The
British general had sustained himself in the belief, that timely
succor would arrive from New York. This hope now failed
him ; and to prevent a general assault from the combined French
and American armies, who had already destroyed his defences,
he offered terms of capitulation. On the 19th of October, 1781,
the army, consisting of 7,000 men, were surrended to the Ame-
ricans ; and the fleet, consisting of two frigates and twenty trans-
ports, with their convoys, to the French.
8. Thus ended the active operations of the most disastrous
war in which England was ever engaged. That nation even
for a time lost her wonted ascendency on the ocean. The fleets
of France and Spain sustained themselves with bravery,
in many conflicts ; and the province of Florida, which Great
Britain had received from Spain in 1763, was retaken by
that power. A war so wholly unsuccessful and disastrous,
drew upon the English ministry a large share of public odium.
They were assailed by the press, and by the people at large ;
and compelled to resign. A new ministry was formed, of men
favorable to Great Britain's acknowledging American Independ-
ence, since her efforts to hinder it had, though attended with so
much expense, proved unavailing. This was therefore done by
the treaty of Paris, Sept. 3d, 1783. By this treaty, Great Bri-
tain lost Tobago and Senegal, ceded to France ; Minorca and
Florida, ceded to Spain ; and the United States of America, made
independent. But she, as has been related, had gained an empire
in India.
9. The British armies having been withdrawn, those of the
United States were disbanded ; not, however, without danger
to the peace and liberty of the country. This danger Wasn-
't. Relate the operations of Washington until he arrived at Yorktown.
By whom were the British invested by sea? What was the result of these
combined operations ? — 8. What other disasters did Great Britain meet?
What was done in regard to the ministry ? By what treaty did Great Bri-
tain acknowledge the American independence ? What territories did Great
Britain lose by this treaty ? — 9. Did the American army disband without
any danger to the country ?
435
ington quelled by his influence, — frowning with severe disdain
on intimations of making him a king. He then presented his
accounts to congress, detailing with exactness his expenditures;
but refusing for his personal services to accept anything, either
for himself or his relatives. Having resigned his offices, and
given a farewell embrace to his officers, he retired to the
seclusion of a happy home. The articles of Confederation,
which had bound the states in war, were now inadequate to their
government. A convention met, and made Washington its presi-
dent ; when the present constitution of the Republic was framed.
It was adopted ; and Washington was unanimously chosen
to be " the first in peace," as he had been u the first in war."
John Adams was elected vice president, Thomas Jefferson
was appointed secretary of state. The revenue was committed
to Alexander Hamilton; and the system established by
him, has not been essentially departed from. Washington and
Adams were the second time elected president and vice presi-
dent. Political parties began to assume a character of great
bitterness,- — the terms federal and republican becoming the
party names. Distinguished men arrayed themselves at the
head of each ; and English and French politics were adopted,
the first by the federal, the last by the republican party. Wash-
ington maintained a neutral position, but his paternal heart was
grieved at the acrimonious dissensions of his political family.
10. A dispute arose between Great Britain and the Republic.
The Americans, being neutral in the European war, had
supplied the French with corn. Orders were issued by the
British ministry to search, seize, and detain all American ves-
sels engaged in that trade. The British also continued to oc-
cupy a chain of forts on the northern frontier, which, by the
treaty of Paris, they had agreed to surrender, — where they shel-
tered the Indians who depredated on the United States. Gen.
Wayne was at this period sent against the savages, who had
defeated the Americans, under St. Clair and Harmar. Wayne
reduced them to order. The American government considered
the British as implicated in the conduct of the savages. They
laid an embargo of thi^ days on all English shipping in their
ports. But the points in dispute being submitted to negotiation,
Mr. Jay was sent over, — who returned with a treaty of commerce,
which, despite popular clamor, was ratified by the president
and senate.
9. How did Washington treat intimations to make him a king? What
did he in respect to his accounts ? To offers of reward for his personal ser-
vices ? What next is related of him ? What is said of the articles of con-
federation ? What was done by a convention of delegates ? When did the
new constitution go into effect, and who was the first president? Who was
the first vice president ? What is said of Thomas Jefferson ? Of Alexan-
der Hamilton ? — 10. What causes of dispute arose between Great Britain
and the United States ? What is said of the savages ? How were the dis-
putes with England settled ?
Modem His.
PER'D VII.
CHAP. I.
Convention
at Philadel-
phia.
turn-
Washington
elected pre-
sident.
John Adams
vice presi-
dent.
1793.
Washington
and Adam*
re-elected-
1794.
Dispute be-
tween Great
Britain and
America.
Wayne's
war.
1794.
Jay's
Treaty.
f Louis
XIV
c
(S3
o
1
CHAPTER II.
The French Revolution.
M,Se'rn His. \m j^Lh me nations who had been engaged in the "Seven
VFAvi vii. Years' War," found themselves, at its termination, suffering
chap, ii. under the burden of grievous taxes. France had, however, suf-
fered the most severely ; and was, at the close of the contest,
in a state of the. most lamentable depression. The evils of the
1643 *ong continued wars in which this nation had been engaged
to during the reigns of Louis XIV. and Louis XV., had been de-
1V15. veloped, and the finances of the kingdom were in a state of ir-
^v.8 retrievable disorder and confusion. The reign of Louis XV. is
1715 especially signalized as an era of profligacy and corruption.
iryj- *s licenti°us monarch suffered his councils to be guided by
+The ac' abandoned women ; — the treasures of his suffering people were
cidentai lavished at their bidding, and offices disposed of,as their avarice
^cafibid or caprice might dictate. The marriagef of Louis, the dauphin,
caused with the arch-duchess of Austria, Marie Antoinette, was
death of celebrated with great pomp; and for a time withdrew the minds
dhd"of °f tne peasantry from the sense of their sufferings. But they
people had been ground down to abject poverty, by oppressive taxa-
&mar- ^on' an^ were subjected to arbitrary imprisonment.
nage 2. The parliament of Paris had acquired power, and now ex-
fe5esVi" hibited a determined opposition to the court. The middle class
had become enlightened, but many of them had unfortunately
WV4L. imbibed from Voltaire, Rousseau, and others, opinions hos-
Louis tile to religion and morality. The American revolution had
becomes been favorably regarded, and Franklin was received and honored
king- at the court of Louis, and the principles of rational liberty,
which the American patriots advocated, were embraced even by
some among the nobility; and La Fayette and others left their
country to aid them in the struggle. France, at length, though
she could ill afford it, gave the national support to America, and
pariia- thus became involved in a war with Great Britain. Louis XVI.
The 5?f ma(*e fruitless attempts to improve his finances, and ameliorate
tiesVes- the condition of his people. The national debt amounted to
Ppads!y the enormous sum of 6,000,000,000 of livres ! The minister,
show' Calonne, in order to relieve the government of its embarrass-
pend- ments, proposed to levy a tax upon the privileged orders. The
ence- nation, knowing the liberty of America and England, and chafed
at its own degradation, demanded loudly that their national le-
Chap. II.— 1. What is said of the effect of the Seven Years' War?
What of the wars of the two reigns of Louis XIV. and Louis XV. ? For
what is the reign of Louis XV. signalized? What marriage is mentioned,
and what said of its celebration ? What was the state of the peasantry of
France ?— 2. From what quarter was the court opposed? What was the
state of the middle class ? What was done in reference to the American
Revolution ? To what sum did the national debt of France amount ? What
was proposed in reference to it ?
436
DESTRUCTION OF THE BASTILE. 437
gislature, called the States General, should again be called. Modern H^
This the court feared to do ; and the minister convened the No- per'd vii.
tables, an assembly selected from the higher classes. This chap. ii.
assembly saw not, that they stood upon a volcano ready to v«**-v-^<
explode ; and they refused to be taxed. On the 13th of July,
1788, as the harvest was nearly ready for the sickle, occurred 1^88.
a dreadful storm of hail, lightning, wind, and rain. Some of July 13.
the hailstones weighed ten ounces ; and the people, beat to the storm.6
earth as they were going to church, lay prostrate, — believing that (The meet_
the end of the world had come. Their harvest, — their vines and ™t|°f the
fruit trees were all destroyed. The succeeding winter was se- ra^wLfjSJj
vere, — famine came upon the miserable population, and there KS55f6?e
was a ferocity in their murmurs which terrified the court. The admirnstra-
king, by the advice of Neckar, then in the ministry, convoked ^m/, in"
the States General. 1787.)
3. Their deputies met at Versailles on the 5th of May, 1789.
The commons, or third estate, who in former times had been
governed by the two other orders, the clergy and noblesse, now
manifested an independent spirit ; and even when the king came ~*ay 5 '
to address them, they covered their heads in ominous disrespect. The
The three estates had formerly sat in different chambers. Now General
the commons, on meeting, refused to proceed to business until meet at
joined by the other orders. Against the threats of the king, sanies,
and the opposition of the aristocracy, the commons, at the head
of whom was Mirabeau, carried the point of consolidating the Conduct
assembly in one chamber; but the clergy united with them ®\lrgy.
treacherously ; that they might help them do their worst, that (See
so they should the sooner ruin themselves. The deputies gave
themselves the title of the " National Assembly."
4. Louis had dismissed Neckar, and a new minister ordered
a corps of foreign troops to advance towards Versailles and J»Jy 14-
Paris, — these places having declared for the assembly ; which struc-
was now engaged in making for France a free constitution. Jea- {J°nB°gf_
lous for the rights of their legislature, all Paris flew to arms. tile.
The " National Guard" was formed. They assembled with the July 16
citizens at the Bastile ; and that gloomy prison, where so many La Fay-
innocent victims of royal caprice and tyranny had been immured, ma Je
was levelled with the ground. Two days after this event La JJjj^
Fayette was made commander of the National Guard. The as- of the
sembly demanded the dismissal of the foreign troops. The Jj^
minister retained them. When Louis was informed ofMhe cause Guard.
I
2. What was the feeling and voice of the nation ? By what measure did
the minister seek to avert this, and what was its result? What occurred
on the 13th of July, 1788 ? What was the cause, and what the consequence
of the famine ? — 3. When and where did the assembly meet ? What was
the bearing of the third estate ? What point did they make and how suc-
ceed in carrying it ? Who was the leader, or head of the commons ? What,
according to M. Thiers, was the object of the clergy in consenting to sit in
the room with the commons? — 4. What was the assembly engaged in do-
ing ? What military corps was formed ? By whom did the people fear that
the assembly would be overawed, and what did they do? What day was
the Bastile destroyed, and what occurred two days after?
CHAP. II.
Distur-
438 THE MOB AT VERSAILLES.
Mod&rm His. ()f the excitement and agitation, ail of which had been con-
pee'd vn. cealed from him, he visited the assembly, threw himself upon
its protection and ordered the retreat of the troops. He next
visited Paris, where he was received with demonstrations of at-
tachment; which he strengthened by confirming the appoint-
ments made by the assembly.
5. The king and royal family gave a splendid fete at Ver-
bances sailles, on the first day of October. This was told to mothers,
Sthof wnose children were suffering with famine ; and on the mora-
October, ing of the fifth, a multitude of women in Paris rose, and set up
the cry of bread ! bread ! and demanded to be led to Versailles.
The rising became general, and arms were seized. La Fayette,
(This unable to stop the mob, accompanied them to Versailles, at the
honor- neac* °^ tne nati°nal guards. The women went first — the
able as crowd surrounded the palace;— the king appeared, and gratified
i.aFay- them by promising to go to Paris. The queen was menaced
ette, is during the day ; but at evening, though the mob were at Ver-
many sailles, all seemed quiet. This, La Fayette reported to the king
writers anc| queen, urging, however, the placing within the palace of ad-
t'o cast ditional guards. The queen refused ; — blindly distrusting him.
for his ^e tnen retired for a short repose. During the last hours of
having the night, some of the more violent of the mob found an un-
tcfsleep. guarded entrance into the palace, — sought the queen's apartment,
, M. and would have murdered her, had she not escaped to another.
§ i ^nhis' La Fayette, informed of these disorders, which would have
g I ^Je been prevented, had he been permitted to station the guards
^ I &ets the within the palace, threw himself among the infuriated mob,
and saved the body guard, whom they were about to massacre.
He next sought the queen — persuaded her to go with him to
the balcony, where he bowed to her, and kissed her hand with
profound respect; and the changeful multitude seeing his devo-
tion, shouted " Vive la Reine." The royal family removed to
Paris ; the National Assembly followed ; and its presence, with
the exertions of La Fayette3 for a time calmed the tumults of
the populace, and restored a temporary quiet to the city.
1*790- 6. In the National Assembly were men of noble motives, and
tiona? disinterested conduct; but while they proceeded with the work
Assem- 0f uprooting ancient usages, they sometimes destroyed too
aconsti- unsparingly the good with the bad. The remains of the old
feudal system were cleared away ; the lands belonging to the
religious houses were converted to the use of the nation ; and
the estates of those who fled from France on the repeal of the
edict of Nantes, were ordered to be restored. With the vast
landed property of the church, which fell under the control of
4. What further occurred in regard to foreign troops ? What popular
measures were now taken by the king? — 5. Relate the disturbances of the
fifth of October. — The occurrences of the night. The conduct of La Fay-
ette. What removal was made by the royal family ? — 8. What is here re-
marked of the National Assembly, (caiied also the Constituent Assembly,)
and of their acts ? How did they provide the fund for carrying their objects
into effect ?
matter
right.)
tution.
ESCAPE AND CAPTURE OF THE ROYAL FAMILY. 439
the assembly, and with the confiscated domains of the emigrant Modem His.
nobility, they constituted a fund for the national use; and on per'd vn.
this basis, issued their paper securities, which passed current, chap. ii.
and received the name of assignats. But while the assembly s***Pv'"w
was laboring to complete the constitution, the king assenting to PaPer
their acts, various counter movements were in operation. Marie of the
Antoinette neither loved nor trusted the French people. While ^f^s""
this beautiful and accomplished woman was the idol of the court, sembiy.
she was censured by the nation for her extravagance and levity ; stbse-
and charged with more crimes than she had committed. The quern
true daughter of Maria Theresa, she would, if left to herself, have two-
opposed the revolution by energetic measures. The nobility JJirds
had, in many cases, emigrated, and stirred up foreign princes landed
against the reformers. The court saw that the tide had become vlyVf*~
too strong for them to cope with, and they, desirous to escape, France
were in correspondence with the emperor of Austria, and ex- wthisn
pected an armed force to come to their assistance. The catholic fund-
clergy were seeking at home, by base means, to destroy the
new order of things. On the other hand, among the revolu-
tionists, clubs were formed, among which was that of the Jaco-
bins, who stirred up the people to censure the measures of the
new government, as too moderate, and too lenient to the prin-
ciples of monarchy,
7. Meantime the crowned heads of Europe, alarmed at the (The
prevalence of principles which tended to disorganize their own asS-
to interfere for the purpose of restoring
bly had
uttered
11-
ing
words'
the authority of Louis. On the north an Austrian army was "great
approaching France, commanded by the duke of Brunswick.
It was soon known that its object was to afford protection to
the royal family, who escaped at night from Paris. Incensed °ingethe"
at their distrust and intention of joining their enemies, the peo- way to^
pie pursued, — arrested the royal fugitives at Varennes, and car- Saiit
ried them back to the capital. The sense of personal danger JjJ"^
arising from the near approach of a hostile army, with whom people
their own sovereigns were in league, roused up the people f^.
to an agony which led to horrid deeds. Paris became a em mo-
scene of tumult and uproar, and the whole kingdom was con-
vulsed. In the assembly, violent discussions arose. Some
maintained, that Louis had, by his flight, abdicated the throne ; fog in
and the more violent demanded his execution. The new con- ^'In-
stitution being completed, September 29th, 1791, the Constituent 1791.
Assembly declared its business accomplished ; and not only dis- Conntti-
solved, but decreed, with more magnanimity than wisdom, that Assem-
no member of its own body should be eligible to a re-election, gjj^j"
chies
were
becom-
6. What movements counter to the National Assembly emanated from
the court ? What from the nobility ? What from the clergy ? What
among the revolutionists?— T. What danger threatened the revolutionists
from the surrounding kings ? What armed force was on the north ? For
what purpose did it approach the confines of France, and what was done by
the royal family ? What was the result of this attempt to escape ? What
was done by the National Constituent Assembly ?
440 PilREXSY OF THE REVOLUTIONISTS.
Modem His. g. Deputies being chosen, the " Legislative Assembly," com-
per'D vn. posed of men ignorant and violent, convened October 14th.
chap. ii. Roland was now minister of the interior, and Dumourier for
s-^~v^,**»*/ foreign affairs. Francis J J., emperor of Austria, imperatively
'eu/ad- demanded the restoration of the old order of things, and was
vocates preparing to enforce his demand by the sword. On the 20th
tuSonaV °f March, the assembly declared war against him. Marechal
mo- Rochambeau, La Fayette, and Luckner, commanded the French
y.) armjes . but after an unsuccessful invasion of Belgium, then under
the Austrian yoke, their operations became merely defensive.
Their want of success is ascribed to the malignant influence of
the factions in the army which were opposed to the Assembly.
La Fayette was at the head of the party, in favor of a constitu-
tional monarchy. He wrote to the Legislative Assembly, fmd-
The ing it departing from first principles. Members threatened his
royal life, — when suddenly he appeared at the bar of the house. He
blindly conJured the deputies to respect the constitution, and warned
spurn them of the danger arising from the Jacobin chiefs. He also
lfriendy appealed to the national guards, by whom he was greatly be-
W«nt *oved- '^ne court? which he wished to save, unhappily still
have distrusted him ; and thus, themselves defeated his measures for
them "keir Preservation ; and La Fayette returned in despair to the
army.
9. Prussia had joined Austria, and the combined army, amount-
ing to 11-5,000 men, advanced and entered the French territory;
when the duke of Brunswick published a manifesto, threatening
the assembly with the loss of their heads, and all Paris with
destruction, if the slightest insult was offered to the royal family.
1792. ^ucn msults had already been offered. The revolutionists grew
The ' frantic. Destruction must do a work, — and they naturally sought
Au^usf to screen themselves, by turning it upon their enemies, domestic
a fatal' and foreign. In Paris all was uproar and agitation. The tocsin
dathe°r was sounded, the drums beat, and armed men assembled, — or-
royai ganized and united ; and early in the morning they besieged the
ami y. Tuilleries. Louis with his family, once more beheld its beau-
tiful garden, as they passed to enter the house of deputies, and
claim the protection of the assembly. After the king left the
palace, the rioters massacred the Swiss guards. They then sur-
rounded the assembly, which yielding to their demands, passed
a vote to dethrone the king. The Luxembourg was first as-
signed him as his residence \ thence he was transferred, a pri-
soner, to the Temple.
10. After these events, La Fayette, ever true to constitutional
liberty, seeing that it could no longer be maintained, attempted,
8. What assembly next convened, and when ? Who were now the king's
ministers ? What was done by the emperor of Austria, and by the French
in consequence? What military arrangements are here noticed? What
was done by La Fayette? — 9. What army was advancing upon Paris?
What declaration or manifesto was published by the duke of Brunswick?
What was now the situation of the revolutionists and their conduct? What
was that of the royal family ?
EXECUTION OF LOUIS XVI.
441
IH
with four of his friends, to escape to America ; but they were Modern His-
made prisoners by the Austrians, and contrary to the laws of per'D vii.
nations, immured for four years in the dreary dungeons of CHAP- "■
Olmutz. France was now divided into violent parties. In the ^~v^~'
Legislative Assembly were the Feuillants or Constitutionalists, Jtae^Jg
the Girondists, who were not ill disposed towards the king, and offered
the Jacobin or Mountain party, so called from their occupying ^ase"
the highest and central seats in the chamber of session. The if he
Jacobins were blood-thirsty agitators, and they held their clubs retract
in Paris, which were presided over by Danton, Robespierre, |^s®£
and Marat, afterwards called " the Infernal Triumvirate." in favor >.!§
1 1. The combined army made themselves masters of Longwy °{£?f£~
and Verdun. The commune of Paris, when informed of this, berty.)
gave orders for the general massacre of the royalists. About
three hundred murderers were employed in the horrid service, 1792.
and three days were devoted to the inhuman butchery. The Vassal
assembly and the ministry attempted in vain to arrest the mas~ ere of
sacre ; the soldiers who guarded the prisons were unable to af- taiist°sy~
ford their unhappy inmates relief. The Legislative Assembly
closed their career, and were succeeded by an assembly still more
violent, called the "National Convention." The regal power |JP- r2e°;
was declared to be abolished and. a republic established. Vio- public,
lent contests occurred in the assembly between the factions of
the Gironde and the Mountain ; the former reprobated the mas- 1793.
sacre, and wished to save the king, — the latter gloried in their 3^^'
deeds of blood, and determined to destroy not only the king, but xvi.
all persons who were opposed to their own violent measures. head~e<i.
The Jacobins prevailed. Louis was tried, condemned, and on
the twenty-fifth of January he was brought to the guillotine, an
innocent victim of the crimes of his predecessors.
12. The execution of the king rendered parties irreconcilable, ^J®s-
and called down upon the nation the vengeance of monarchial first
Europe. England put forth her energies, and through her toall-
money and influence The First Coalition was formed against ll°n«
France, in which all the European powers united, except Swe-
den, Denmark and Turkey. Before the trial of Louis, Du-
mourier had been placed at the head of the French armies, and (There
sent against the Prussians. At Valmy he obtained some advan- C0'aIi_
tage, and the Prussians retreated. The French next recovered ^?f*st
Verdun and Longwy, and finally achieved the conquest of Bel- France
gium. Dumourier now invaded Holland, took Breda and Ger- fJh™
truydenberg, but was recalled to the command in Belgium, ""jeto
where the Austrians had, in their turn, been successful. He jnciu'_
hazarded an engagement at Neer-Winden, and was defeated. sive-)
IO, What was the course pursued by La Fayette when a peaceful
revolution changed to violence and outrage ? Give an account of the
principal parties m France. — 11. When informed that danger was threaten-
ing Paris, by the approach and success of the invading army, what horrid
massacre was perpetrated ? What contention arose among the factions ?
Which prevailed, and what was done ? — 12. What immediate consequences
resulted from the execution of the king ? Relate some of the military ope-
rations in the north.
56
1
ti
I
O
a
442 "the infernal triumverate."
Modern His. 13. Meanwhile an insurrection had taken place in La Vendee,
per'D vii. which held out for the king; and the most heart-sickening
chap. ii. scenes of destruction and carnage, want and destitution there
^^f^^s occurred. This and other events increased the rigor of the con-
(in the war vention, and the hatred of the parties. The Girondists were
dee, says" overthrown ; — the Mountain faction obtained supreme authority,
berthed"' and tne " Rei§n of Terror" began. The once gay, and still
900,000 men, beautiful queen, after having suffered for the necessaries of life
m'eTS" m the gloomy prison of the Conciergerie, was condemned and
22,006 cnii- executed. The leaders of the Girondists were also put to
executions death, and Danton, Robespierre, and Marat, in the name of the
°rparis in rePut>lic, exercised with arbitrary despotism, cruelties the most
Nantes, and barbarous. Licentiousness and profligacy walked forth un-
^out veiled : even the forms of religion were destroyed ; and Chris-
80,000.) tianity was declared a nullity. The Sabbath was abolished;
1?94. and one day m ten set apart, not for religion, but for idleness
(Madam and licentiousness. The goddess of reason, personified by a
peraon1- naked prostitute, was drawn in triumph through the streets of
ates the Paris ; and the municipal officers of the city, and the members
o? Rea- °f ^ie National Convention of France, joined publicly in the
son.) impious parade.
14. Of the three despots, Marat was assassinated by Char-
lotte Corday, a young girl, self-devotecl to the good of her
country. Danton was condemned through the instrumentality
Death of Gf Robespierre. This atrocious man, for a time, maintained the
Marat .- r . , , , , , , . . ' ,
and sway alone ; but at last, deserted by his associates, he was con-
pierre" demiied by the convention ; and the guillotine, which had, during
his reign of nearly two years, shed the innocent blood of thou-
sands, for once let fall the stroke of justice, and delivered the
earth from a ferocious monster.
15. Meanwhile, the republican armies under Jourdan and
(Abbe^ Pichegru, had retrieved the honor of the French ; and in the
influen- Netherlands and elsewhere achieved many conquests. After the
forming ^ °f Robespierre and his associates, the revolutionists began
the to see that, if blood continued to flow, their own must soon
cStl- swell the tide. The constitution was remodelled, so as to be-
tution.) come less democratic, and the executive government was in-
§H trusted to a Directory, consisting of five persons. The legisla-
' five body was formed of two councils, that of the " ancients,"
of two hundred and fifty, and the " council of five hundred."
1795. ^ laws were to originate with the five hundred, but not to pass
Napo- without the sanction of the ancients. Some of the provisions
Bona- of the new constitution offended the Parisians and the National
parte.) Guards, 30,000 of whom rose in arms. Barras, one of the
13. What is said of the war in La Vendee ? (Examine also the side note.)
What party or faction now gained the ascendancy 1 Who was now sacri-
ficed ? Who were the " Infernal Triumvirate ?" What impious declara-
tion was made ? What infamous rites were celebrated, and who joined
publicly? — 14:. What was the fate of Marat? Of Danton? Of Robes-
pierre?— 15. Under what generals were the French armies? Were they
successful? How was the government now remodelled ? Did this third
constitution pass without tumult ? What occurred ?
NAPOLEON BONAPARTE.
443
directors, brought forward and placed at the head of the regular M°dern His.
troops, a young Corsican officer, who promptly reduced them to per'd vil
order. He had distinguished himself at the siege of Toulon, chat. hi.
He was Napoleon Bonaparte. v-^-v^,/
CHAPTER III.
Victorious Career of Napoleon Bonaparte.
1. Austria and England were now the only powers of the 1^95-6.
first order engaged in the war against France ; the others having (Bona-
withdrawn from the coalition. Bonaparte was raised to the nngetheqmob
rank of general, and intrusted by the directors, who medi- recommend-
A j h , r » • 'ii in-, edhimtothe
tated the conquest of Austria, with the command of the army Directory.
of Italy. Moreau led the army of the Sambre and Meuse, brougtithim
which was to press forward on the eastern frontier of Germany ; forward.)
and Jourdan commanded that of the Rhine. A junction of
these three armies was designed to take place at Vienna. Mo-
reau and Jourdan crossed the Rhine. The Austrian generals *"^fe*
were unable to withstand them, and all Germany was filled with
consternation. The imperial forces at length united, and under /°autr^abn jj?~
the arch-duke Charles, they attacked Jourdan and defeated archduke.
him. By this event, Moreau, who had advanced 200 miles, Moreau's
and had the defiles of the Black Forest in his rear, was placed ceretreate
in a dangerous position. His safe retreat, made under the most thrB"f"kthe
embarrassing and dangerous circumstances, is considered a great Forest.
military exploit.
2. Bonaparte, meanwhile, advanced into Italy, passing round
the southern extremity of the Alps, and keeping near the shores mo%te-
of the Mediterranean. At Monte Notte, he encountered the notte.
Austro-Sardinian army, and here obtained his first victory. He mf^er
if it- n/r'n • 1 1»T • T •MJX/JBiOOi-
again deleated his enemy at Millesimo, then at Mondovi. In mo.
less than a month, he had gained three battles, destroyed 25,000 18th.
of the enemy's forces, and made himself master of the mountain £"apa?t?s
passes. Pressing forward, he crossed the Po, and attacking first vkto
with desperate bravery the Austrians, at the bridge of Lodi, he "Austrfans
forced their general, Beaulietj, to retreat upon Mantua. Milan May 11.
submitted to his arms, and those powers of Italy heretofore neu-
tral or interested in the Austrian cause, now sought the friend-
Chap. III. — 1. What first-rate powers were engaged in war against
France in 1795-6 ? What conquest did the directory now meditate ? Who
led the three armies provided, and what was their destination? What
success had the two armies sent against Germany in the first instance ?
What was afterwards the position of Jourdan ? What was then done
by Moreau ? — 2. Describe the course of Gen. Bonaparte until after his first
and second victory ? Relate his third. What important city submitted to
him?
444
Bonaparte's great Italian campaign.
Modern His.
PER'D VII.
CHAP. III.
1798.
August.
LONATO.
CASTI-
GLIOJSTE.
MED OLA.
Bonaparte
victorious
over Wurin-
ser and the
Austrians.
September.
ROVERE-
DO.
Bonaparte
defeats Da-
vidovich.
BASSANO.
He defeats
Wurmser.
CALDIE-
RO.
Bonaparte
repulsed by
Alvinzi.
Nov. 15, 16
and 17.
ARC OLA.
Bonaparte
defeats Al-
vinzi.
ship of the conqueror. The dukes of Parma and Modena, the
grand duke of Tuscany, and even the pope were compelled to
purchase his favor, — not only with money and provisions, but
with their finest paintings and statuary, which were transported
to Paris.
3. Mantua was now the only place of strength whieh re-
mained to the Austrians in Italy ; and to this Bonaparte laid
siege. To defend it, 80,000 Austrians were despatched into
Italy, under the command of Wurmser. Learning that the
divisions of this army had unwisely been so far extended as to
prevent easy communications with each other, Bonaparte left
Mantua, and advancing unexpectedly, defeated one division at
Lonato, and another at Castiglione. Wurmser, on learning this,
advanced with his main force ; when, at Medola, victory again
declared for the French. These three defeats had destroyed
nearly half the Austrian army.
4. Bonaparte now resumed the siege of Mantua, which had
in the meantime received supplies of men and provisions.
Wurmser, who had retreated to the Tyrol, having been re-in-
forced by 20,000 men, left Davidovich in command of a strong
force, and himself moved again towards Mantua. Bonaparte
waited only until Wurmser had entirely separated his two divi-
sions, when leaving a small force at Mantua, he proceeded rapidly
towards Roveredo, attacked and defeated Davidovich. He then,
with astonishing celerity, marched upon the advance guard of
Wurmser, attacked and defeated it ; and the next day obtain-
ed a decided victory over the main body, under Wurmser, at
Bassano. This general, as a last effort, succeeded in throwing
himself, with a remnant of the Austrian army, now reduced to
16,000 men, into Mantua.
5. Another Austrian army, under Alvinzi, was sent to re-
lieve that city. Bonaparte met him at Caldiero, and was re-
pulsed ; but at Areola, where he fought three days, he was
again victorious. Thus closed the wonderful campaign of
1796 ; — which the minister of war reported thus to the direc-
tory, " Italy has been entirely conquered — three large armies
entirely destroyed — fifty stands of colors have been taken —
forty thousand Austrians have laid down their arms : — all has
been accomplished by an army of thirty thousand Frenchmen,
commanded by a general, scarce twenty-six years old." About
this time, Corsica, the native land of Bonaparte, was, by his
2. What was the result of this brilliant success ? Which of the sove-
reigns of these states made their submission, and with what were they com-
pelled to purchase the favor of the conqueror ? — 3. What strong fortress
held out for Austria? What was done in reference to it? By what army
did the Austrians attempt to defend it ? How did Bonaparte destroy nearly
half this army? — 4. Relate Bonaparte's three next victories. To what
number was Wurmser's army reduced, and what, as a dernier resort, did
he do? — 5. What general was next sent by the Austrians? What battles
did Bonaparte fight with this army, and with what success ? What did the
French minister report to the Directory concerning this astonishing cam-
paign ? What is said of Corsica.
PEACE OF CAMPO FORMIO. 445
agency, reunited to France. The destructive civil war of La Modem His.
Vendee was ably and honorably brought to a close by general per'd vii.
Hoc he, at the head of 100,000 men. chap. m.
6. The Austrians reinforced the army of Alvinzi. Bonaparte, ^-^"^^w*
at Montebaldo, failed of his usual success ; but, in a desperate 1T91?.
battle at Rivoli, he was again victorious, when Mantua surren- JmSnte-'
dered, and Italy was conquered. Bonaparte now advanced to- baldo.
wards Austria. Vienna was in alarm, and the humbled court reputed.6
now consented to negotiations, which were opened at Idem- £t"?"y-
berg on the 9th of April. While waiting for authority from Bonaparte
the Directory to complete the treaty, the young conqueror sate vlctonous-
down at Montebello, in the vicinity of Milan ; where ambassa- peace'of '
dors from Germany, the popedom, Genoa, Venice, Piedmont, F°Jcf0mE°_
and the Swiss Republic, gathered around him, each seeking his lease o'f La
favor. On the 17th of October the treaty was concluded at Edition
Campo Formio. To France was ceded Flanders, Savoy, and
the extension of its boundary to the Rhine.
7. Austria was to be indemnified by receiving a 'part of the
territories of Venice. An insurrection in that city, with the
murder of some of the French soldiery, during the absence of
Bonaparte, afforded him a pretext to conquer that republic.
The Austrians took possession of some of its provinces, and ,T*7 „
, „ , . . r, . . , . , ,x r. J. (Italian Re-
the h rench the remainder, with the capital. Naples was form- publics
ed into a Parthenopean Republic. The Cisalpine Repub- th°™ame
lic was formed of the French portion of the duchy of Milan, burlesqued
and several other Italian states. The constitution of Genoa used^oTe-
also was changed, and it received the name of the Ligurian signate a
Republic About the same time Holland was conquered by ^rTvince
Pichegru, and the Batavian Republic there established. An taJdgoveri^
insurrection took place in Rome, of which the French troops ment.)
taking advantage, occupied the city, subverted the papal govern-
ment, and established the Roman Republic French influence
also produced a revolution in Switzerland, where the French
arms, after several battles, triumphed, and the Helvetian Re-
public was established. Geneva was united to France.
8. In the meantime the English, now left single handed to
contend with France, had maintained their superiority at sea,
and in successive engagements, defeated the French and their (English
allies. The Directory of France, victorious on the continent, alaf£{jjjta
but disturbed by factions and disorders at home, — perhaps un- prospector
willing to retain in Paris a general, who possessed ambition, ^JJSbJ1"
5. What of the disastrous war of La Vendee? — 6'. Relate the battles
fought in the beginning of the year 1797 between Bonaparte and Alvinzi.
What was the consequence of the victory of Rivoli ? What course did the
French commander take after the conquest of Italy ? When and where
did negotiations begin ? Where was now the young conqueror, and how
surrounded ? Give some account of the peace of Campo Formio. — T.
Relate the iniquitous proceedings with respect to Venice. Enumerate
the burlesque republics which the French now formed of their con-
quered provinces. Show on your maps the location of each. What city
was united to France ? — f*. What had been the fortune of war on the
seas?
446
BONAPARTE IN EGYPT.
Modern His.
PER'D VII.
CHAP. III.
ON THE
NILE.
Nelson
gains a great
victory.
Feb. 11.
(Bonaparte
is guilty of
destroying
in cold blood
at Jaffa 4,000
prisoners
who laid
down their
arms under
pledges re-
ceived from
his officers.)
ABOUKIR.
Bonaparte
entirely de-
stroys a
Turkish
army of
9,000.
1T9S
Second
Coalition.
CASSAJYO.
Russians
under Su-
warrow de-
feat the
French.
and unlimited power over the troops, now planned a new and
singular enterprise, — the conquest of Egypt. The preparations
Mrere made under pretence of an expedition against England,
and the command was given to Bonaparte. He embarked at
Toulon, and on his passage he achieved the conquest of Malta ;
and though pursued by the British fleet, he arrived in safety at
Alexandria. He ascended the Nile, and near Cairo, in sight of
those monuments of antiquity, he gained the sanguinary battle
of the Pyramids, over the Mamelukes, under Murad Bey, whose
cavalry had been regarded as invincible. Cairo surrendered ;
Egypt was conquered, and the remnant of the Mamelukes dis-
persed and fled.
9. Admiral Nelson, the hero of the British navy, commanded
a fleet, which followed the French to the bay of Aboukir, near
the mouth of the Nile, where their vessels were moored; and
after a bloody battle, entirely defeated them, and nearly destroy-
ed their ships ; — thus rendering the English masters of the Me-
diterranean, and placing the French army in a perilous situation.
Learning that the Turks had assembled two armies for the de-
fence of Egypt, Bonaparte traversed the desert which separates
Africa from Asia ; and entering Palestine, he defeated another
body of Mamelukes, and took Gaza and Jaffa. Bent upon the
conquest of Syria, he invested Acre, but receiving a repulse
from the English, under Sir Sydney Smith, he was compelled
to raise the siege, when he retired into Egypt. A Turkish army
having landed at Aboukir, Napoleon advanced against it, and
obtained another decisive victory. Intelligence from Europe
now induced him to abandon Egypt ; and leaving his army un-
der Kleber, he returned to France with secrecy and despatch.
On the 14th of December, 1799, died George Washington.,
the father of his country, whose death filled the American peo-
ple with unaffected sorrow.
10. While Bonaparte was engaged in Egypt, a reverse of
fortune had taken place in the French affairs. A " Second Coa-
lition" had been formed against France, composed of England,
Russia, Naples, the Ottoman Porte, and Austria. The Austrian
war had been renewed. The archduke Charles having won
two battles over Jourdan, had penetrated Switzerland. The
Russians and Austrians, under Suwarrow, had defeated the
French at Cassano, and made themselves masters of Milan and
Turin. In short, repeated defeats had deprived the French of
nearly all their conquests in Italy. In other quarters, the arms
of France were more successful. Under Massena, they defeated
8. What new project was got up by the Directory ? Give an account of
Bonaparte's expedition against Egypt. — 9. What important naval battle
was fought, and what were the results ? Relate the circumstances of Bona-
parte's invasion of Syria. What bad action was he guilty of at Jaffa ? (See
note.) What battle did Bonaparte gain after his return to Egypt ? Whither
did he go? Whose death occurred, and when ? — IO. What nations were
parties to the second coalition against France? What had been done by
the Austrian armies in Italy ? How had the French succeeded in other
quarters ?
Bonaparte's second campaign in italy.
447
a Russian army in Switzerland, and took Zurich. A combined
English and Russian army, under the duke of York, which had
invaded Holland, was, after some partial successes, compelled
to retreat.
11. France was torn by factions, which the directorial go-
vernment could not manage. Bonaparte, with the Abbe Sieyes,
planned another revolution, in which he took care to be ap-
pointed to the command of all the military in Paris. The
legislative body, (met at St. Cloud,) like Cromwell, he ex-
pelled from their place of session, at the point of the bayonet.
Three Consuls were appointed, of whom Bonaparte was first.
Placed now at the head of the French nation, he made earnest
overtures of peace to England, tut they were haughtily rejected.
Russia, however, abandoned the coalition.
12. Moreau had now the command in upper Germany, and Bo-
naparte invaded Ttaly with 30,000 men. He crossed Mount St.
Bernard, through passes heretofore deemed inaccessible, sur-
prised the Austrians, conquered the country to the Po, and re-
stored the Cisalpine Republic. Melas, the Austrian general,
had left what he deemed a sufficient force to guard the passes
of the Alps, and with the main army advanced upon Genoa.
Leaving there a besieging force, he marched towards France,
encountered the French, under Suchet, and compelled them to
retreat. On the eve of invading France, he received the as-
tounding intelligence of Bonaparte's passage over Mount St.
Bernard. Melas turned back, and on the plains of Marengo,
the hostile armies met. The shock was terrific ; but the fierce
and bloody encounter left the French masters of the field. This
battle restored to France almost all she had lost in the preceding
campaign ; and was followed by an armistice, which extended
to the armies on the Rhine. Moreau had crossed the Rhine,
penetrated Bavaria, and gained the battle of Hohenlinden where
he took 10,000 prisoners, and entered Austria. Negotiations
for peace were now opened at Luneville. The several repub-
lics founded by the French were acknowledged ; and the Rhine
was made the boundary between France and the German em-
pire A treaty of peace was made, at Florence, with Naples.
The naval war had meanwhile been to the advantage of the
English, to w7hom Malta had surrendered.
13. In the north of Europe affairs wore a new aspect. Paul,
now emperor of Russia, won over by the policy of Bona-
parte, evinced a hostile spirit towards the English, and laid an
embargo on their shipping. He also engaged Denmark and
Modern His.
PER'D VII.
chap. nr.
Nov. 11.
French
govern-
ment
modi-
fied.
Bona-
parte
First
Consul.
1800.
Bonaparte
crosses Mt.
St. Bernard.
June 14.
MAREN-
GO.
Bonaparte
defeats the
Austrian3
under
Melas.
Nov. 3.
HOHEJV-
LIJVDEJV.
Moreau de-
feats the
Austrians.
1801.
January 1,
Peace of
Luneville
with Aus-
tria.
Peace of
Florence
with the
Italians.
11. What did Bonaparte find to do when he returned from Egypt?
Who aided him in changing the government? How was the new revolu-
tion effected? What were the three first magistrates called, and who was
first of the three ? What did the First ConsuHn regard to England ? What
nation abandoned the coalition ? — 12. Relate Bonaparte's second invasion
of Italy. The movements of Melas. The battle of Marengo. What ar-
mistice was made ? What in the meantime had been done by Moreau ?
What treaties of peace were now made ? What is said of the naval war ?
—13. Who was Paul, and what was done by him?
448
Modem His.
PER'D VII.
CHAP. III.
i&m.
Peace of
Amiens.
(England
agreed to
restore
Malta.)
1SO&
Bonaparte
first consul
for life.
Bonaparte's
bad treat-
ment of the
negro great
man, Tous-
saint Lou-
verture.
(England
refused to
restore
Malta.)
The young
duke
D'Enghien
shot.
BONAPARTE FIRST CONSUL.
Sweden in an "Armed Neutrality?* the object of which was to
injure England. The English despatched ships to the Baltic,
took possession of the Danish fleet, and attacked Copenhagen,
thus obliging the Danes to sue for peace. The death of Paul
produced another change. His son, Alexander, by mediating
between England and France, effected a peace between them.
It was favorable to France ; England restoring all conquests
except Trinidad and Ceylon. Peace was also concluded be-
tween France and the Porte. The English and Turkish army
lead defeated the French forces in Egypt, and restored that
country to the Turks. Bonaparte was now consolidating his
power, by seeking the favor of every class. He re-established
the Roman catholic leligion, revived the priesthood, re -orga-
nized the national institute, permitted the emigrants to return,
and pleased the officers of the army, already devotedly attached
to his person, by creating the " Legion of Honor," a military
aristocracy, of which himself was chief. He was declared by
the senate first consul for life.
14. In the French island of St. Domingo the negroes had
risen upon their masters, and massacres succeeded. The Eng-
lish invaded the island. The French colonists and negroes
made peace, and together expelled the common enemy. Although
still tributary to France, they adopted a new government, and
Tous saint Louverture, who, though a negro, possessed dis-
tinguished talents and virtues, now held the first station on the
island. The French attacked the islanders; Toussaint was
treacherously made prisoner and taken to Paris, where Bona-
parte disgracefully permitted the sable patriot to suffer and die
in prison. The islanders resisted the French successfully, and
maintained their liberty.
15. A year had not elapsed since the peace of Amiens, before
the refusal of England to fulfil the treaty, produced a renewal
of the war between France and that power. The French
seized the electorate of Hanover, and a British squadron block-
aded the mouths of the Elbe and the Weser. It was at this
period that Bonaparte stained his name by the murder of the
duke D'Enghien. He had been accused of favoring those who
conspired against the life of the first consul. He was arrested,
and, after the form of a military trial, condemned, and shot in
the trench of the castle of Vincennes. The obsequious senate
now offered to Bonaparte the title of Emperor; and he prepared
for the coronation of himself, and his consort, the charitable and
elegant Josephine.
13. How did his hostility to England affect Denmark? Who was Paul's
successor, and what is the first act related of him ? Give an account of the
treaty of Amiens. In what was Bonaparte now occupied, and what mea-
sures did he bring to effect. — 14. What had been done in St. Domingo ?
What oppressive act is related of Bonaparte ? — 15. What caused the re-
newal of war between France and England ? What possession of the Eng-
lish was seized by the French ? What measure of retaliation did the British
take by means of their navy ? What was done by Bonaparte in relation to
the duke D'Enghien?
Coronation of Napoleon and Josephine.
PEKXOD VIII.
FROM
THE CORONATION £ 1804: < OF NAPOLEON.
TO
THE BATTLE > 1815. < OF WATERLOO.
CHAPTER I.
The Great Empire of Napoleon.
1. Napoleon was, with Josephine, vested with the imperial
dignity on the second of December, 1804. The pope, recon-
ciled by the establishment of the catholic religion, assisted at
the splendid ceremonial ; — crowned and anointed him, in the
church of Notre Dame. Those states which had been called
republics, were now to be remodelled, and the Cisalpine and
Ligurian were formed into the kingdom of Italy, of which Na-
poleon ivas crowned king at Milan. Thus a second Charle-
magne had arisen to restore for a brief season the empire of the
first.
2. England, with the influence she used, and the money with
which she subsidized Russia and Austria, now formed with them
a Third Coalition. Spain had already allied herself to France.
Napoleon with his attached soldiers, — rapid as a mountain
torrent, — crossed the Rhine, — took prisoners an Austrian army
Modern His.
P'R'D VIII,
CHAP. I.
Third
Coalition,
Period VIII.— Chap. I. — 1. What account can you give of the coronation
mentioned ? What other coronation besides that of Paris is related ? To
whom may Napoleon be compared, in respect to the empire which he ruled ?
— %. What powers now coalesced against France ? What nation was with
France ? Give an account of Napoleon's invasion of Germany.
451
452
THE AUSTRIAN EMPIRE SUPERSEDES THE GERMAN.
Modern Hts.
P'R'D VIII.
CHAP. I.
20,000 pris.
Peace of
Presburg.
1806.
N. cuts up
his "repub-
lics" into
kingdoms
for his rela-
tives.
Confedera-
tion of the
Rhine.
1803.
Fourth
Coalition.
Prussia
joins Eng-
land.
JEJVjI.
N. defeats
the Prus-
sians.
"Continen-
tal System,"
Dec 26.
"Berlin
Decree."
(This was
answeredby
the British
"Orders in
Council.")
at Ulm, and while Francis and his court fled to Hungary, en-
tered his capital. At Austerlitz, on the anniversary of his coro-
nation, he met the united Austrian and Russian armies. From
sunrise until evening, the battle was hotly waged ; when the
genius of Napoleon again prevailed, and the allies were com-
pelled to retreat, leaving to the French 30,000 prisoners, and
an immense quantity of artillery. The successes of Ulm and
Austerlitz were followed by the treaty of Presburg, Austria now
deserting the coalition.
3. In 1806, the ambitious views of Napoleon became still
more apparent. Holland had, the preceding year, been formed
into a kingdom, of which his brother, Louis Bonaparte, was
made k*ng. Naples was now given to Joseph Bonaparte, the
elder brother, who was also invested with the title of king
of the two Sicilies. Several provinces were constituted duchies,
or grand fiefs of the empire, and given to the emperor's relations
and favorites. His sister, Pauline, was made princess of Guas-
talla ; his brother-in-law Murat, grand-duke of Berg and Cleves ;
while Eugene Beauharnois, the son of his empress Josephine
by a former marriage, was sent viceroy to Italy. Fourteen
princes in the south and west of Germany, were formed into
the " Confederation of the Rhine." They were separated from
the Germanic body, and recognized Napoleon as their head,
under the title of Protector. The German empire now ceased
to exist; Francis II. laying down the title of emperor of Ger-
many, and assuming that of emperor of Austria. Switzerland
was also brought under the dominion of France, Napoleon de-
claring himself its "Mediator."
4. Frederic William of Prussia, who had heretofore been
neutral, this year engaged in the war against France. The main
origin of his enmity was the duplicity of Napoleon, who had
encouraged the Prussians to seize the electorate of Hanover,
and who had since, in negotiating with Great Britain, offered to
restore it. The Prussian army, with their allies, amounted to
1 10,000 men. Napoleon met them at Jena, with 150,000 and
obtained a complete victory. The different bodies of the Prus-
sian army were, one after another, obliged to surrender, and in
little more than a month, the French took 140,000 prisoners,
great numbers of standards, large quantities of artillery, and
made themselves masters of the principal towns of the kingdom.
From Berlin, Napoleon issued his famous decree, declaring the
islands of Great Britain in a state of blockade, and prohibiting
the countries under his government from all intercourse with
2. Of the battle of Austerlitz. What treaty followed this great battle ? —
3. Let the pupil study with the maps, and show upon them the new king-
doms, or what would be much the better way, sketch on a slate, black-
board, or paper, central and southern Europe with the new divisions. As the
change in Germany has remained, be particular to remember it. — 4. What
power now joined England in a fourth coalition against France ? What had
provoked the king of Prussia ? Relate the military operations of the Prus-
sians and French with the Prussian losses. What system did Napoleon
commence, and what decree issue from one of the capitals of Prussia?
PEACE OF TILSIT. 453
that nation. He next detached Saxony from Prussia ; conferred Mode™ His.
upon the elector the dignity of king, and brought him into his p'R'd.viil
alliance. The Prussian provinces on the lower Rhine were re- c»ap. i.
duced by an army from Holland, under Louis, — and Silesia, by a v^~^^-'
French army under Jerome Bonaparte, a younger brother of
Napoleon.
■5. Russia became now seriously alarmed, and her armies ad- i§©^.
vanced to protect her empire. At Pultusk, a battle was fought pultvsk.
between the French and Russians, without any decisive result. an?FxSi,
Again at Eylau, from three o'clock in the afternoon until the next indecisive.'
night, the two armies fought, — when, about twelve o'clock, Feb. 8.
the carnage ceased, the French keeping possession of the ^defeat
field. The armies now, for some time, remained inactive. Jn \he Rus-
May, the French besieged and took Dantzic. The June follow- s,ans-
ing, a decisive battle was fought at Friedland, where the Rus- frled-
sians were defeated, and compelled to retreat with great loss. land.
This battle was followed by the capture of Konigsberg, and p«ace 0f
by a personal interview between Alexander and Napoleon, who Tilsit
met on a raft in the middle of the river Niemen, for neither of
these potentates would go to visit the other. The peace of Tilsit (Jerome had
was concluded. Napoleon made hard conditions with Prussia, MisTpatter-
stripping Frederic William of one-third of his dominions. The sonofBaiti-
brothers of Napoleon were acknowledged in their dignities ; and his "low am-
another of the family, Jerome Bonaparte, provided with a king- his^rot'her's
dom in Westphalia. pride, sent
6. Denmark having manifested signs of hostility towards the America.)
English, that government, fearing that Napoleon would possess
himself of the Danish navy, demanded of the Danes to deposit Th^?,®T' h
their ships of the line in some British port. The haughty de- take posses-
mand was refused. A British fleet was despatched to the Bal- ^nlS fleet,
tic, conveying land forces, which defeated a Danish army, and
invested Copenhagen. The city capitulated, and the shipping c?n)ye1steden
and naval stores were delivered up to the English. The Danish
government refused to ratify the capitulation, and declared war
against England.
7. Napoleon now turned his ambitious eye towards the south,
coveting the peninsula of Spain and Portugal. He made a se-
cret treaty with Charles IV. of Spain, by which he was to send (G?d°y "f-
T-i i i i i r, • i 1 1 • • i t-» i gotiates the
French troops through the Spanish dominions,- — take Portugal, treaty be-
and then divide it with Spain. The French army, headed by FranCeeeand
Junot, advanced towards Lisbon; and Napoleon declared that Spain, and
the family of Braganza had ceased to reign. Under these cir- bailed "the
cumstances, the prince regent, (John VI.,) and royal family re- pri"ce„0/
solved to remove the seat of government to Brazil; and they
5. Relate the military operations of the Russians and French. What fol-
lowed the battle of Friedland ? What conditions did Napoleon make with
Prussia ? What new kingdom was made, and for whom ? — 6. Give an
account of the contest between the Danes and the English. — ?. What ad-
dition to his dominions did Napoleon now covet ? What treaty was formed
between him and the Spanish sovereign ? How did Napoleon contrive to get
an army into Spain ? What declaration was made by Napoleon ? What was
done by the royal family of Portugal ?
454
NAPOLEON AT BAYONNE — LA FAYETTE.
Modern His.
P'R'D VIIT.
CHAP. I.
isos.
French
troops oc-
cupy Ma-
drid.
Ferdinand
compelled to
abdicate.
Joseph
Bonaparte
king of
Spain.
The " Code
Napoleon,"
(four years
in forming.)
(Madam
Campan
was the
sister of Mr.
Genet, well
known in
American
history.)
La Fayette.
September.
La Fayette
released
from
Olmutz.
hastily embarked in a British fleet, which had blockaded the
city, and which now afforded them protection from the French,
who soon after entered Lisbon.
8. The court of Madrid was agitated by the most violent fac-
tions, arising from the discords of the royal family, — no doubt
fomented by the emissaries of Napoleon. In March, 1808,
Charles IV. abdicated the crown in favor of his son Ferdinand,
VIII. Murat, with a French army, took possession of Madrid.
Under these circumstances, Charles and Ferdinand, with the
royal family, were induced by Napoleon to go to Bayonne,
where he compelled Ferdinand to abdicate, and the younger
members of the family to renounce all claim upon the Spanish
crown. He retained them prisoners, and issued orders for an
assembly of notables to meet at Bayonne, to settle the govern-
ment. No Spaniards, except the partisans of France, attended.
Joseph Bonaparte, who resigned the kingdom of Naples to
Murat, the husband of Caroline Bonaparte, was here made
king of Spain. Napoleon's base treachery towards Spain was,
perhaps, his first fatal error.
9. During this year a new system of French jurisprudence
was published, under the title of the " Code Napoleon." The
ablest jurists in France had been employed by the emperor in
its formation ; he gave much personal thought and labor to it,
and it now remains as his best title to future fame. Soon after
the publication of this code, Napoleon established a univer-
sity for the superintendence of national education. Nor did
he entirely overlook the education of the female sex, though
he was far from regarding the subject in its true light. The
institution which he founded, and placed under the celebrated
Madam Campan, was designed rather as a means of encouraging
the military, than of elevating the female mind and character ;
it being made for the daughters of the " Legion of Honor,"
especially those whose fathers fell in his service.
10. From Napoleon, let us turn for a moment to a less daz-
zling, but a more worthy character. La Fayette had for four
years inhabited the gloomy dungeons of Olmutz. The empe-
ror of Austria, appealed to by Washington in behalf of the
American people, and by other friends of justice and humanity,
offered him his liberty if he would abjure his principles. No
less the votary of truth than the friend of human rights, La
Fayette would not tamper with a lie to save himself, or even
his dearer family, who had, with the generous devotion of truly
noble French women, immured themselves with him. By the
treaty of Campo Formio, he received his liberty, at the instance
of Bonaparte. He retired to the chateau of La Grange, having
been reinstated in that portion of his paternal inheritance. Na-
8. Relate the course of events by which the kings of Spain, father and
son, became the prisoners of Napoleon. What new arrangements did he
make with his kings? What is remarked concerning Napoleon's conduct
towards Spain? — 9. What is here said respecting the " Code Napoleon?"
What did Napoleon to encourage education? — 10. Give an account of La
Fayette since his capture by the Austrian?.
WARS OF THE SPANISH PATRIOTS. 455
poleon sought to draw him thence, and make him another sat- Mode™ His.
tellite in his system; but the patriot, though grateful for his p'R'dviii.
release, rejected every situation by which he would have coun- chap. i.
tenanced the military despotism to which his country was sub- ^*~v-***mr/
jected, and quietly gave himself to agricultural pursuits.
11. Spain, though believed to be degenerate, had yet her wars of the
patriots, who would not tamely relinquish her national inde- p^ots.
pendence. They roused to arms, although not less than 100,000
French troops were dispersed throughout the kingdom. The
Spaniards were, indeed, enervated by that luxury, which the
gold and silver of the west had brought in its train, but not so
much, the peasantry, as the nobles. Provincial assemblies were
formed, acknowledging the authority of Ferdinand VII. ; and
orders were issued for raising volunteers, and organizing ar- offCADiz.
mies. The French fleet in the harbor of Cadiz, was com- Jjg^j;
pelled by its patriotic citizens to surrender ; and a French army, French,
near Almanza, was almost wholly destroyed. At Valencia too, alman-
they learned that the Spanish people, though destitute of regular ffijIZfl
troops, would defend their soil. At Saragossa they were again saraqos-
repulsed with the loss of 12,000 men. In Andalusia, the French SpaniSh
general, Dupont, was defeated, and compelled to surrender his patriots de-
army. These victories placed the southern parts of the king- French?
dom entirely in the hands of the patriots. King Joseph mean-
while arrived at Madrid, and assumed the reigns of government
but learning the successes of the Spaniards, he retreated from
the capital.
12. George III., of England, became insane; and his son, af-
terwards George IV., was made regent. He formed an alliance
with the Spanish patriots, and with those of Portugal, — who,
following their example, now rose in arms against the French. *ofto
The British despatched an army under Sir Arthur Welle sley, vimeira.
which landed in Portugal October 12th, 1808; and obtained, at English un-
opt Wpllt^s—
Vimeira, a victory over the French under Junot, and compelled iey defeat
them to evacuate Portugal. Another British army landed in the French.
Spain, under the command of Sir John Moore.
13. Napoleon now took upon himself the command of the
Spanish war. He defeated several patriotic armies, and advanced
upon Madrid, which, after a weak defence, surrendered. Sir 1809-
John Moore, who had proceeded to Salamanca, retreated, closely na.
followed by the French, who overtook him at Corunna, and %en^jJe'
attacked him as he was about embarking his army. The En- English,
glish gained their ships, but not without loss. Sir John was Death of Sir
killed, — and his officers, before their departure, snatched a few John Moore,
dangerous and sorrowful moments to bury him on the shore.
14. Russia and Denmark, now in the interest of France,
made war upon Sweden, which favored England. The Swedes
11. Give an account of Spain, and the exertions of the patriots. — 12.
What occurred in England ? What alliance did the English now form ?
Relate the battle of Vimeira, and the events which followed. — 13. Relate
the course of events in the peninsula, from the lime of Napoleon's taking
command, till after the battle of Corunna ?
456
WAGRAM.
Modern His.
P'R'D VIII.
CHAP. I.
1S09.
Fifth
Coalition,
England,
Austria,
Spain, Por-
tugal, <fcc.
April 19.
J9 BENS-
BERG.
21.
LANDS-
HUT.
22.
ECK-
MUHL.
Napoleon
victorious.
aSPERN.
ESSLING.
Austrians
defeat the
French.
July 8,
WA GRAM.
Napoleon
defeats the
Austrians.
Peace of
Yienna.
(The grief
of Josephine
on learning
that she was
to be di-
vorced was
overwhelm-
ing. She did
not believe
the act
would be for
Napoleon's
good, for
"mine,"
said she, "is
the star of
the em-
pire.")
were beaten, and Finland was added to the Russian empire.
Gustavus IV. was deposed by the Swedes, on pretence of his
incapacity for governing; and the duke of Sudermania elected
king, under the title of Charles XIII. British vessels were
now excluded from the Swedish ports.
15. While Napoleon was busy settling his brother Joseph's
kingdom in Spain, where he abolished the inquisition, Austria
was raising and disciplining great armies. The Tyrolese rebelled,
the Westphalians expelled their king Jerome ; and Prussia and
Italy were ready to avail themselves of the first adverse circum-
stances to burst the chains by which the despot of Europe had
bound them. Napoleon returned to France — then led his
armies across the Rhine; and after successfully fighting the
archduke Charles at Jibensberg, Landshut, he obtained the
brilliant victory of Eckmuhl, which opened his way to Vienna.
Francis fled, — and the French, after entering his capital,
proceeded down the southern bank of the Danube, — the
archduke having collected his scattered army, and taken a
position on the northern bank towards Presburg. At Aspern
and Essling, the French attempted to cross the river, but were
driven back with great slaughter, and compelled to recross to
Lobau, an Island in the river, from which Napoleon had erected
bridges for conveying his army to the opposite bank. After
remaining several weeks on this island, Napoleon deceived the
Austrians with regard to his contemplated point of attack, caused
a bridge to be thrown over the river, opposite to a wing of the
Austrian army, which was stationed at Wagram. One night
sufficed for its completion, and the following morning the sur-
prised Austrians beheld the French army ready to attack them.
The battle began at sunrise, and at night the French had con-
quered.
16. The Treaty of Vienna, which was signed by Francis and
Napoleon, was less unfavorable to Austria, than might have been
expected from her almost ruined condition. The cause was not
long a secret. The fair Maria Louisa, eldest daughter of the
emperor of Austria, was cast into the balance, to be given in
marriage to Napoleon. Accordingly, after his return to France,
he divorced Josephine, — thus violating the laws of God, —
severing from his side, and breaking the heart of the best of his
friends, — while he took in her place the daughter of his ancient
enemy.
14:. What had been doing in the north of Europe? — 15. What did
Napoleon in Spain ? What in the meantime had happened in Germany ?
Relate Napoleon's campaign of 1809. — 16. What is remarked concerning
the peace of Vienna ? What did Napoleon on his return to France ?
CHAPTER II.
The decline and fall of Napoleon's Empire.
1 • The British invaded Holland with a fleet, bearing an army
of 40,000 men, under the earl of Chatham, and made themselves
masters of Flushing, A French army was sent against them,
under Bernadotte. The British took possession of the island
of Walcheren, with a view of blocking up the Scheldt ; and
being kept by their leaders in that unhealthy spot, many fell
victims to the pestilential atmosphere of the marshes which
surrounded them. The remainder returned ; and the enter-
prise, to the grief and mortification of the English, entirely
failed of its object.
2. The peninsular war had been prosecuted by the generals
of Napoleon, while he was occupied with the Austrians.
Saragossa, after a vigorous and determined resistance, in which
20,000 of its defenders perished, fell before the French, under
Soult; whose army then entered Portugal, but was forced by
Wellesley to retreat. Efforts, more united, were now made by
the English and Portuguese. Their armies entered Spain, and
at Talavera, they achieved a victory over the French, com-
manded by king Joseph in person. A reinforcement from
France, under Ney, arriving, Wellesley was compelled to re-
treat into Portugal. At Ocana, the French, under Joseph, ob-
tained a complete victory over the Spaniards; and at the
termination of this campaign, the cause of the unfortunate
patriots seemed desperate.
3. The ensuing winter the French made themselves masters
of Malaga, and completed a line of posts from the bay to the
Mediterranean, intersecting the whole of Spain, through its
capital. They took Seville, and commenced the siege of Cadiz.
The strong fortress of Ciudad Rodrigo was carried by the
French ; Portugal was invaded, and Almeida taken. Wellesley
now adopted the Fabian policy, and harrassed his enemy, avoid-
ing general actions. At the pass of Busaco, the French, under
Massena, attacked him, but were repulsed with considerable loss.
He retreated within about thirty miles of Lisbon, and Massena
made Santarem his head quarters. This year, the Cortes of
Spain assembled, declared the renunciation at Bayonne to
be null and void, and swore allegiance to Ferdinand VII.
They also appointed a regency of three of their most popular
officers, and vested in them the executive power.
4. Early in January, Suchet, on the part of the French, took
Tortosa, and Soult, Olivenza. The whole of the preceding
Modern His.
P'R'D VIII.
CHAP. II.
TALAVE-
RA.
Wellesley
defeats the
French.
OCAJVA.
French and
Spanish,
under Jo-
seph, defeat
the English.
181®.
French take
Seville.
Cortes of
Spain de-
clare for
Ferdinand.
Chap. II. — 1. Relate the British expedition into Holland, with the affair
of Walcheren. — 2. Give an account of the peninsular war in 1809. — 3.
Of the military operations in 1810. What was done by the Cortes ?
58 457
458
RUSSIA MAKES WAR UPON NAPOLEON.
P'R'D VIII.
chap. n.
ALBUERA.
Wellington
defeats
Massena.
1812.
General
view of con-
tinental
Europe.
July 20.
SALA-
MANCA.
Wellington
defeats the
French.
Russia de-
clares war
against
France.
Napoleon
invades
Russia with
an army of
half a mil-
lion.
year, marshal Victor had been engaged in the siege of Cadiz,
yet the place seemed no nearer being reduced. Massena re-
treated from Santarem, and was closely pursued by Wellesley,
now lord Wellington, who came up with him and defeated
him in a sanguinary battle at Albuera. Wellington now com-
menced the siege of Badajos, but on the advance of the French,
who were reinforced, he raised the siege and retired. Suchet
besieged Tarragona, which surrendered, and experienced every
species of shocking outrage. He next invaded Valencia, de-
feated the Spanish general, Blake, and took the fortress of
Murviedro.
5. Hamburg was now annexed to the French empire. Aus-
tria was recruiting her finances, and recovering from the de-
pression into which her wars with France had plunged her.
The marriage of Napoleon with Maria Louisa, seemed to give
to Francis a prospect of permanent friendship with France, but
Austria, and also Prussia, felt humbled by being made subser-
vient instruments to the policy of France, to humble England
and aggrandize itself Russia was this year engaged in success-
ful war with the Ottoman Porte. Alexander had been careful
not to offend Napoleon, but he was yet capable of withstanding
his power ; and the only continental sovereign who was. Causes
of difference had, however, arisen between them, and appear-
ances were ominous, of approaching war. Denmark, from fear
of France, kept up the show of hostility towards England.
Siveden had received, as the heir of her monarchy, marshal Ber-
nadotte, an officer of Napoleon. Such was the situation of Eu-
rope at the opening of the year 1812.
6. In Spain, lord Wellington, who still commanded the allies, •
took Badajos and Ciudad Roderigo, — obtained a decisive vic-
tory at Salamanca, and soon after entered Madrid, which Joseph
Bonaparte, on his approach, evacuated. Alexander of Russia had,
in March, issued a formal declaration of war against France, hav-
ing previously made peace with the Porte, and settled all disputes
with England. Napoleon, after vast preparations, began early in
the spring to march numerous bodies of his troops into the in-
terior of Germany ; and in May he set out from Paris, accom-
panied by the empress, Maria Louisa. After receiving the flatter-
ing homage of the various German monarchs, whose dominions
he visited, he met the emperor, Francis II., at Dresden, and be-
ing assured of the alliance of Austria and Prussia, proceeded
northward. He crossed the Vistula with 500,000 men. His
armies which had been directed to open a passage to St. Peters-
burg, were foiled in their attempt. The Russians, under count
Wittgenstein, defeated a French army under Oudinot, at
4. What were the principal events of the campaign of 1811 ? — 5. What is
said of Hamburg at this period, (the beginning of the year 1812) ? Of Aus-
tria? Prussia? Russia? Denmark? Sweden? — 6. What military events
occurred in Spain? What was now done by Russia? Describe Napo-
leon's advance towards Russia. What were his numbers? At what places
were his troops checked by the Russians ?
THE FATAL RUSSIAN CAMPAIGN.
459
Polotsk, and general Essen, who commanded at Riga, checked
the advance of the French under Macdonald.
7. ^Napoleon, on the 17th of August, attacked the main Rus-
sian army at Smolensko. The Russians, after a valiant contest,
retired; but the French, on entering the city, found it in flames.
The Russian army now retreated to a position near Moscow,
where Kutusoff was called to the command. The French
came up with the Russians at Borodino, where a desperate
battle was fought, which continued with great fury through a
whole day, and left the French masters of the bloody field, on
which lay 50,000 of their own dead. The Russians acknow-
ledged a loss of 25,000.
8. Kutusoff, unable to withstand the invaders, retired with
his army to the provinces beyond Moscow. On the 14th of
September, the French entered that venerable city, but found it
deserted by its inhabitants and on fire. Napoleon was alarmed,
for he had intended to winter in Moscow, — and he made strenu-
ous efforts to save it, but in vain. For one fire extinguished,
ten wrere set. Women as well as men with blazing torches
were seen madly running from house to house, — till their incen-
diary work was done. Napoleon speaks thus of the horror of
the scene — " It was the spectacle of a sea and billows of fire, a
sky and clouds of flame ; mountains of red rolling flames, like
immense waves of the sea, alternately bursting forth and elevat-
ing themselves to skies of fire, and then sinking into the ocean
of flame below." The destruction of the city which precluded
the possibility of making it his winter quarters, and the assem-
blages of Russian troops around Moscow, induced the French
emperor to offer terms of peace. The reply was, that no terms
could be listened to, while the enemy remained in the country.
9. Napoleon lost some weeks in awaiting answers to des-
patches which he had sent to Petersburg. No alternative but
retreat was now left, and humiliating as was the measure, he
embraced it. Dividing his forces, he directed Murat and Beau-
harnois, with a detachment of 50,000 men, to attack the grand
Russian army, while he led the remainder on the route to
Minsk. Murat and Beauharnois met with a severe repulse, and
the whole French army continued its retreat under the most dis-
tressing circumstances. The cold which now came on with
unusual severity, destroyed immense numbers, and unfitted the
survivors for vigorous exertions ; while the hardy Russians pur-
sued close upon their heels, and slaughtered them at every turn.
At the passage of the Berezina, Napoleon, to save the main body
of his army, ordered the bridge on which they had crossed, to
be blown up. But a portion of the French were still on the
other side. As they were rushing towards it, driven by the fire
of their pursuers, they heard a crash, — and the bridge blew
up. Uttering a shriek of despair, numbers plunged into the
T. What happened at Smolensko ? At Borodino ? — 8. Relate the scenes
of Moscow. — 9. Give a relation of the retreat of Napoleon's army from
Moscow.
Modern His.
Sept. 14.
The burning
of Moscow.
The Rus-
sians by
well timed
delays de-
tain Napo-
leon.
Oct. 19.
Napoleon
begins his
disastrous
retreat.
(Losses of
the French :
in battle,
125,000; by
cold and fa-
mine,
132,000;
prisoners,
soldiers
190,000, offi-
cers 3,000,
generals 48;
standards
taken, 75;
artillery,
929 pieces.
See Alison.)
460 PRUSSIA AND AUSTRIA JOIN RUSSIA.
Modem His, stream, and sunk amidst floating ice, while the remainder were
P'R'D viii. butchered by the Russians. When the army reached Wilna,
chap. ii. Napoleon gave the chief command to Murat, and himself has-
sV^ v^w tened to bear to France the tale of his misfortunes. Marshal
Ney commanded the rea^r, and that generous soldier was him-
self the last man to quit the hostile frontier. Thus was de-
stroyed the most formidable army of modern times. Out of the
500,000 men who composed it, not more than 50,000, — one in
ten, recrossed the Russian frontier.
ISIS, 10. THE SIXTH AND GRAND COALITION.— The al-
The Sixth lies of Napoleon, whose friendship was founded in necessity,
Coalition, and the nations whose submission to France had been obtained
at the point of the bayonet, now showed their readiness to
emancipate themselves from its yoke. Prussia gave the signal
of defection, and early this year leagued with Russia and Eng-
land. Sweden, already in the interest of Russia, soon joined
" The Sixth Coalition."
(Maiet's 11. On the return of Napoleon to Paris, his genius ap-
det"cudat Peared invested with new splendor; and the hold he possessed
Paris. Un- upon the affections of the French, seemed strengthened by mis-
ofhavfng6 fortune. Though all France was thrown into mourning, the
'earned i the nation responded to the call of their sovereign, and new levies,
(poieon, he to the amount of 350,000 men, were made early in the spring
seSnthe °^ 1813. The wreck of the grand army with which Napoleon
govern- had entered Russia, had been placed in the fortresses occupied
ment,) by the French in Prussia.
12. The Russian armies now advanced, and the inhabitants
of the countries through which they passed, every where joined
them ; and the French were compelled to abandon their for-
tresses and retreat. Alexander and Frederic fixed their head
quarters at Dresden. Napoleon advanced at the head of his
May|- new recruits, and at Lutzen the French met the army of the al-
lies, and after a bloody conflict, remained masters of the field.
May 19. Unable to maintain themselves on the Elbe, the main army of
ZEjy.' the allies retreated from Dresden, (which Napoleon took,)
FreiuerCOn~ to Bautzen, where another battle was fought with great
Armistice of l°ss on both sides. The French again conquered, — but the
Pleswitz. allies retired in good order. An armistice of six weeks took
place.
13. Napoleon might now, by the surrender of his conquests,
have negociated ; but this, in an interview with the Austrian
9. Who carried the news of these disasters to Paris? What is said of
Ney ? What remarks are made concerning the army ? — lO. To what had
Napoleon owed the friendship of his allies? What nations now leagued
against him, and what was the league called? — 11. What is said of Napo-
leon's demeanor on his return to Paris ? What was the conduct of the
people of France ? What was the number of the new army ? Where was
the wreck of that with which Napoleon had invaded Russia? — 12. What is
related of the Russian and Prussian armies, and of their sovereigns ? Relate
the military operations till after the armistice of Pleswitz. — 13. With
whom did Napoleon have an interview, and what opportunity did he let
slip?
DOWNFALL OF NAPOLEON.
461
THE
KATZ-
BA CH.
Blucher de-
feats the
French.
1S13.
Oct. 15.
LEIPSIC.
The allies
minister, Metternich, he refused, and Austria joined the at- Modern Hls-
lies. Hostilities were renewed in August, when Napoleon had, p'R'D viii,
in various posts in Saxony and Silesia, 250,000 men. The CHAP- n.
allies attacked Dresden during the absence of Napoleon in Si- ^*~sr>*~'
lesia, but his rapid return defeated their plans. He saved the
city, and killed and made prisoners 25,000 of their troops. At
Culm, the allies obtained a victory over the French general
Vandamme. The Prussian general, Blucher, was victorious
at the Katzbach, and in other quarters the allies gained advan-
tages over the generals of Napoleon. He now concentrated his
forces, and marched to Leipsic. On the 15th of October, the
grand army of the allies advanced ; and the battle of Leipsic,
the great battle which decided Napoleon's fate, commenced and
continued three days. Napoleon, watching its progress, saw defeaTNa-
the princes of the " Confederation of the Rhine," pass over with poieon.
their troops to his enemies. This was the fatal stroke. He lost
the battle, — and his fortunes were irretrievably fallen. Again
he sought his capital, followed by the remnant of a noble army,
and arrived at Paris on the 9th of November.
14. The Spanish campaign had been equally disastrous. The
French generals, not reinforced, could only maintain a defen- June n.
sive warfare. At Vittoria, the English and patriots, under Wei- Wellington
lington, obtained a great and decisive victory over Joseph, who
was retreating with immense treasures towards France. All
became the booty of the conquerors, who were now masters of
the peninsula. After the retreat of Napoleon from Germany,
the garrisons which had been left there, were forced, one by one,
to surrender. The allied sovereigns now advanced upon the
Rhine, and with the opening of the next campaign, France was
on all sides threatened with invasion. Wellington had entered
upon its southern frontier, and the Russians and Austrians were
ready to advance on the side of the Rhine. Holland, without
tumult or bloodshed, emancipated herself from the French yoke,
and reconstructed her ancient government. Murat, the king of
Naples, ungratefully abandoned Napoleon, now in the time of
his utmost need.
15. The French people were worn out with war; and all
efforts to rouse the national spirit and recruit the army, proved
ineffectual. The allies entered France; and Napoleon, after
making the most of his inadequate means of defence, found him-
self surrounded by difficulties which .no genius or skill could
surmount. On the 30th of March, 1814, the allies advanced
upon Paris. The empress Maria Louisa, and all the civil au-
thorities, left the city, and a French army, which had taken a
position on the heights of Montmartre, near Paris, was defeated.
The following day the metropolis was given up to the allied
sovereigns.
13. Give an account of military operations previous to the battle of Leipsic.
Of that battle and its consequences.— 14. Give an account of the military ope-
rations in Spain. Of the position of France at the beginning of the campaign of
1814. What was done by Holland? What is said of Marat ?— 16. Relate
the advance of the allies to Paris. At what time did they enter that city ?
defeats Jo-
seph Bona-
parte.
(Napoleon
wenttoFon-
tainbleau.
He re-
leased Fer-
dinand of
Spain and
the pope,
whom he
had there
imprisoned
five years.)
1S14.
March 31.
Allies enter
Paris.
462
napoleon's abdication and return.
Modem His.
P'R'D VIII.
CHAP. If.
IS14.
April 11.
Napoleon
abdicates.
The remains
of Napo- .
Ieon's Rus-
sian army
restored.
(Louis
XVII., un-
fortunate
boy, never
had other
kingdom
than the pri-
son in which
he died, —
about two
years after
the execu-
tion of his
parents.)
1815.
March 1.
Napoleon
lands in
France.
March 6.
At Grenoble,
12th.
At Lyons.
16. Wellington advanced to Bourdeaux, and there erected
the standard of the Bourbons. The Austrians made themselves
masters of Lyons. Napoleon who had been engaged in at-
tempts to obstruct and prevent the union of the grand armies,
was still manceuvering, with 50,000 men, to relieve Paris, when
he learned its capitulation to the Russian and Prussian sove-
reigns. With an agonized mind he retired and stationed him-
self at Fontainbleau ; and there learned the general defection.
On the 11th of April, 1814, he signed an act of abdication, re-
nouncing for himself and his family, the thrones of France and
Italy. He received from the allies the sovereignty of a small
island, chosen by himself, — Elba, in the Mediterranean ; where
he was to retain the imperial title, and receive an income from
France. Alexander made himself justly popular with the
French ; and chiefly by his giving freedom to the prisoners of
Napoleon's army, by which 150,000 Frenchmen were restored
to their families.
17. A new constitution, dictated by the allied sovereigns,
was received by the French senate ; France was reduced to the
limits it had occupied at the commencement of the revolution,
the Bourbons were recalled, and Louis XVIII., who had been
residing in England, was declared king. He had a task to per-
form, in rewarding friends, responding to the claims of the old
royalists, and quieting enemies, to which he was not equal.
The year had not expired, before discontents and murmurs were
heard, and intrigues and conspiracies were carried on. Jl con-
gress of the allied sovereigns had assembled at Vienna, to ad-
just and settle the concerns of Europe. They had not yet
adjourned, when, ten months from his departure for Elba, Na-
poleon again trod the soil of France. With his imperial guard
of Elba, numbering about 1,000 men, he escaped from the
island, landed at Cannes, near Frejus, and at once advanced to-
wards Paris. The troops stationed in his course, were in vain
exhorted by the officers of the king to oppose his progress.
The sight of their general awakened pleasing remembrances of
past, and dreams of future glory, — and they hailed him with joy-
ful acclamations. At Grenoble, where he first met his former
soldiers, they seemed, for a moment, hesitating. Napoleon ad-
vanced alone, and offered his breast, — " Let him who will, kill
his emperor." Overcome by the appeal, they threw down their
arms, and rushed to embrace him. The troops of Lyons, not-
withstanding the remonstrances of the brother and nephew of
the king, followed their example.
18. Louis, meanwhile, had made the best dispositions in his
power to arrest the progress of his rival. But he knew not
whom to trust. Ney promised to bring Napoleon in a cage,
16. Describe the situation of France in regard to the invading armies.
Which of the allies first entered Paris, and when ? What was the course
of Napoleon? — IT. What was done by the allied sovereigns? What was
the position of Louis XVIII. ? Where had the congress of allied sovereigns
met ? Describe the course of Napoleon from the 1st to the 12th of March.
463
and Louis gave him the command of the army stationed at Modern His-
Mehin, to oppose his entrance into the capital. This army was p>r>d viii.
drawn up, expecting that, which Napoleon had collected on his chap- "•
way. A galloping of horses was heard, and Napoleon himself, v^~v^w
with a few attendants, arrived, at full speed, in an open car-
riage. He leaped from his vehicle, and threw himself into their 1§15.
arms. Their hearts melted ; and thus, the proudest of his vie- March 20.
tories, Napoleon won the last army which Louis could bring 0Upareis.Ve
into the field. On the 20th of March, Louis again went into ^p.0^0"
exile, and established his little court at Ostend.
19. When the news of Napoleon's debarkation from Elba
was made known to the sovereigns at Vienna, they burst into a
laugh ; but they soon found occasion for more serious proceed-
ings. Scornfully rejecting the proffers of Napoleon for recon-
ciliation, they issued their manifesto, declaring that he had for-
feited the only legal title to life, and "that he was a disturber
of the public tranquillity, and without the pale of civil and social
relations." Great Britain, Russia, Austria, and Prussia, re- land,g
assembled large armies. England gave not only men, but money is
11 millions pounds sterling, which was paid in subsidies to Jjjjfj^gy
the allies. The whole fortified frontier of the Belgic provinces an the allied
on the side of France, was occupied by strong garrisons, chiefly Powers-)
of troops in British pay, of which Wellington took the com-
mand. The Prussian army, under Blucher, advanced to co-
operate with him. The allies had in arms, in their various
positions, upwards of a million of troops, to make war, as they
declared, upon one man !
20. The efforts of Napoleon were unremitting and gigantic. 1815.
He raised an army of 200,000 men; a force, which, though wjiter-
vastly inferior to that of the allies, was yet formidable. On the loo.
16th of June, Napoleon obtained, at Ligny, his last victory, in g^uy ae-
which he compelled the Prussians to retreat. On the 18th, was featedby
fought the ever memorable battle of Waterloo. The Prussians under Wei-
were commanded by Blucher ; the English by Wellington ; and L(Jss8of "he
the French were for the last time under the eye of Napoleon. French
The battle was long and obstinately contested. It ended in the aUie^IbSoo.
complete triumph of the allies, — and the sun of Napoleon now
set forever.
21. He returned to Paris, and there found that he had no ^Jdagj£r
longer the confidence of the nation. Some proposed that he La Fayette a
should dissolve the legislative chambers, and assume the die- ^"Kg0"
tatorship, La Fayette, then a member of the body, came for- scene.)
ward, made and carried a motion that all attempts to dissolve
the assembly at that important crisis, should be high treason.
18. Relate the occurrences to the 20th of March.— 19. What effect did
the news of Napoleon's return produce on the sovereigns at Vienna ? What
manifesto did they issue ? What nations took up arms again ? What did
England give? What troops were on the northern frontier? — 20. What
army was now raised by Napoleon ? Give a sketch of his short campaign
till after the 18th of June. — 21. What occurred after Napoleon's return to
Paris ? What was proposed in the assembly by La Fayette ?
464
THE LAST DAYS OF NAPOLEON.
Modern His.
P'R'D VIII.
CHAP. III.
1815.
At St. He-
lena.
1821.
May 5th.
Death of
Napoleon.
" France," he said, " had shed blood enough for the ambition
of one man. Against the force in arms it was vain to attempt
resistance." Napoleon abdicated, recommending his son; but
the assembly made no pledge. Napoleon then taking a sorrowful
farewell of his army, went to Rochefort, designing to embark for
America. The harbor was blockaded by a British squadron. He
went on board one of the ships, and surrendered himself to the
commander, claiming, as he was self-delivered, the hospitality of
the British nation. They sent him to St. Helena, a rock in the
ocean. He died, — and in a little grass-grown nook, two weeping
willows marked the grave of Napoleon. But the everlasting
mountains above, and the perpetual sea below, were regarded
by the passing mariner, as emblems of his genius and his fame.
1802.
English
provoke a
new war.
1803.
May 18.
Great Bri-
tain de-
clares war
against
France.
Third
Coalition.
England de-
clares war
with
Spain.
CHAPTER III.
Great Britain and America*
1. The terms of the Treaty of Amiens were mortifying to
England. She had surrendered all her conquests, except Trini-
dad in the West Indies, and Ceylon in the East. Some public
rejoicings were held in London, but the people generally were
by no means satisfied. And when it was seen that Bonaparte
not only maintained his military armaments, but made new
attempts to aggrandize France, Great Britain violated the treaty
by refusing to give up the island of Malta. France then seized
Piedmont; when the British recalled their minister, and declared
war. Bonaparte then not only deprived them of Hanover, but
made vast preparations for the invasion and conquest of the
British islands. The English spirit rose with the crisis, and
Napoleon was deterred from the project of invasion, and obliged
to march into Germany, to combat the Third Coalition that
" British gold and hatred," to use his words, had raised against
him.
2. In the meantime the English continued the war in the
East Indies, and acquired large territories from the native princes.
They were triumphant over the French by sea, and captured
their East India homeward fleet. England now declared war
against Spain ; that power being subservient to the views ol
Napoleon, and employed in increasing and strengthening her
naval armaments. The French fleet, under admiral Ville-
neuve, formed a junction with that of Spain, and both num-
21. Relate the sequel of Napoleon's history.
Chap. III. — 1. How did the people of England view the treaty of
Amiens? How did they violate it, and what was done by France ? When did
England declare war, and what further was done by the two belligerents ? —
2. What was done in Asia ? What did the English capture at sea? What
is here said concerning Spain ?
AMERICAN COMMERCE DESTROYED. 465
bering thirty-two sail of the line, were attacked off Cape Modern His.
Trafalgar by the British fleet, consisting of twenty-seven sail, p>r>d vui.
under lord Nelson. The combined fleets were conquered, and chap. m.
nearly destroyed ; but Nelson, with 2,000 British seamen fell v^^^v-^w
in the battle. William Pitt, the energy of whose character 1S©5.
had so long controlled the nation, sunk under the weight of his %?$££'
cares in the beginning of the next year; and his rival Mr. Fox, faloar.
appointed his successor, died also before its close. During the deTiveison
administration of the latter, the Cape of Good Hope was con- and cojiing-
V i ' .■■ t, ... i J wood, defeat
quered by the British. the French
3. Napoleon, having, by the great battles of Austerlitz and Sp|nfsh
Jena, reduced the continent of Europe to fear, if not to sub- isoti.
mission, attempted, in 1807, to compel the people, by what he Death of
called his " his continental system," to prohibit British com- pox.
merce. To retaliate upon France, the English ministry had 180T
issued orders for blockading that large portion of the western Napoleon's
coast of Europe extending from the mouth of the Elbe to Brest. cree"reta-
These and other measures of France and England nearly anni- haEnJ„^hhe
hilated the commerce of the American republic. Mr. Jeffer- "orders in
son, then president, caused an embargo to be laid on American ^fti' '
shipping ; but proving extremely unpopular, it was repealed, American
and a non-intercourse with the two offending nations substituted, embargo.
Great Britain made open pretensions to the supremacy of the
ocean, assumed the right to search neutral vessels, and to take
from them, not only such articles as the officers of their ships
judged contraband, but also her native seamen. Under this
pietended right she had grossly insulted the American flag,
having taken native born American sailors, and pressed them
into her service ; yet England had, at this moment, some apo-
logy, in standing alone to set bounds to the ambition of Na-
poleon.
4. The venerable George III. having, in 1809, attained the 1809.
•50th year of his reign, his subjects kept the anniversary of his ^Ja/of
coronation as a jubilee. His general health was good, but his jubiie« kept
mind was borne down by a severe domestic affliction, in the attnegcom-
sickness and death of his favorite daughter Amelia, — and his ^fttjj °f
reason was lost. His son George, the prince of Wales, was year of the
formally invested with the regency of the kingdom. The com- G^rg" Jh
merce of the Americans, continuing to be crippled by the
restrictive systems of the two belligerent powers, they consi-
dered that both had given them just cause of war ; but before 1812.
putting forth a declaration, they offered peace to that power America de-
which should rescind its measures. This was partially done by c against r
France; whereupon the republic declared war against England. England.
2. Relate the battle of Trafalgar. What deaths occurred the next year?
What conquest of the British is mentioned ? — 3. What was done by the
French and English authorities, which nearly annihilated the commerce of
America ? What measures were taken by president Jefferson ? What were
the pretensions of Great Britain with respect to the ocean ? — 4t. When, and
on what occasion did the British keep a jubilee ? What was done by the
Americans previous to their declaration of war? When and against whom
was that made ?
59
466
AMERICA AT WAR WITH ENGLAND.
Modern His.
P'R'D VIII.
CHAP. III.
Oct. 13.
QUEENS-
TOWN.
British de-
feat the
Americans.
Am. loss
about 900 k.
and prison-
1S13.
Jan. 22.
Massacre of
FRENCH-
TOWN.
Am. loss
1,000.
April 27.
YORK.
British loss
about 1,000.
Sept. 10.
Perry's vic-
tory on lake
Erie.
October 5.
Near the
THAMES.
British de-
feated.
1314.
July 5.
CHIPPE-
WA. '■
July 25.
BRIDGE-
WATER.
Americans
victorious.
5. General Hull, on the part of the Americans, invaded
Upper Canada, but soon retreated. The British general
Brock, pursued him to Detroit, and there caused him to sur-
render his whole force. At Queenstown occurred another affair
between the American troops and the British. The American
militia, unused to war, did not perform in a soldier-like manner.
A small body of regular troops, under captain Wool, repelled
an attack of the British, led by Brock, in which that commander
was repulsed and slain. The American honor was well sus-
tained at sea. The British frigate Guerriere struck to the frigate
Constitution, commanded by captain Hull ; and the frigate
Macedonian was captured by commodore Decatur, command-
ing the frigate United States. In several other naval actions the
Americans were also victorious.
6. General Winchester was defeated at Frenchtown ; and by
the treachery of the British commander, colonel Proctor,
522 Americans were massacred by the savages after their sur-
render. But York, the capital of Upper Canada, surrendered
to the Americans, under general Dearborn. General Clay
was defeated at the rapids of the Miami. Fort George was taken
by the Americans ; and the British squadron on lake Erie cap-
tured by commodore Perry. On lake Ontario, a strong navai
armament was kept up, without any decisive superiority. In
the meantime, a British squadron entered Chesapeake Bay, and
committed depredations on its shores. The Chesapeake, an
American frigate, too hastily fitted for sea, surrendered to the
Shannon, a British frigate of superior force, off Boston harbor.
7. Lake Erie being now commanded by the Americans, an
army under general Harrison, was landed in Canada, who
pursued the forces under general Proctor, and the famous In-
dian chief Tecumseh, and defeated them on the Thames.
Commodore Chauncey having obtained the ascendancy on
lake Ontario, an army under general Brown crossed the
Niagara river, and aided by the militia under general Porter,
captured fort Erie. This was the first of a brilliant series of
victories obtained by the American generals, Porter, Scott,
Ripley and Brown, on the Niagara frontier, over the troops
who had fought under Wellington in Spain. The most bloody
of these conflicts was the night-battle of Bridgewater.
8. Sir George Prevost, the governor of Canada, being re-
inforced by Wellington's veterans, at the head of 14,000 troops,
invaded the American territory at Plattsburgh, where were sta-
tioned about 4,000 American troops, under general Macomb.
A British flotilla on lake Champlain, under captain DoWxNie,
reached Plattsburgh bay at the same time, and attacked the
American squadron, commanded by commodore Macdonough.
5. What is said of Hull and his invasion ? Of the affair at Queenstown?
Of the successes this year at sea? — i*. What account is given of the affair
at Frenchtown? What are the other events by land and sea, of the cam-
paign of 1813 ?— T. What occurred on the Thames ? On the Niagara fron-
tier3 in 1814 ? — S. What occurred at Plattsburgh, and on lake Champlain ?
Ross killed.
AFFAIR AT PLATTSBURGH. 467
A severe conflict ensued in the harbor of Plattsburgh, which Modern His.
ended in the total destruction of the British flotilla, and the fall p>r'd vm.
of Downie. The commander-in-chief of the British forces chap. m.
saw this unexpected result with dismay. The militia of the
adjacent states of New York and Vermont, by a general rally,
were pushing forward by forced marches to succor Macomb ;
the outposts of the British were attacked, and Sir George Pre-
vost ordered and executed a retreat so hasty, that his camp under Mac-
equipage and military stores were abandoned. featThl Bri-
9. In the south, a barbarous predatory warfare had been tish flotilla,
waged by admiral Cockburn. Nor was its character much
changed, on the arrival of general Ross. This officer landed Au„ust25
a force from the united fleets of Cockburn, Malcolm and Coch- Gen. Ross
rane, and proceeded to Washington for the avowed purpose of ^JJJJJ Jjj J_
burning and destroying the public edifices and works of art at fines of
that place. This object being effected, the British commander ton.ng"
made a hasty retreat, and re-embarked his troops. The next
attempt of general Ross was against the city of Baltimore, unsuccess-
which was ably defended by a corps under general Smith, fui attack on
While advancing to the attack, Ross was met by a detachment General "
of American riflemen, and fell mortally wounded. By this "
time the defences around Baltimore assumed so formidable an
appearance, that the British commanders, both of the navy and
army, judged that the prospect of success was not equal to the
hazard, and the invading army withdrew.
10. Admiral Cochrane went to the West Indies. Being
re-enforced, his fleet now consisted of thirteen ships of the line
with transports, in which he received Sir Edward Packenham,
and an army of 13,000 efficient men, destined for an attack
upon New Orleans. Well grounded fears being entertained
for the safety of that important city, general Jackson was
charged with its defence. The British troops effected a landing
on the 23d of December, and took a position nine miles below
New Orleans. Gen. Jackson had taken his position with judg- 1815-
ment, and fortified it with care. On the 8th of January, Sir Ljsjtm'
Edward Packenham attempted to storm the American entrench- -Ian. 8th.
ments. A deadly fire from their batteries, and entrenched rifle- Jackson, de-
men, overwhelmed and threw back the British divisions, as fetjstht-he^,l;i"
often as they were brought to the charge. Packenham was loss, 2,600 ;
killed, and the second and third in command wounded, when at A™ 'J k"
length the British were driven from the ground. Their loss
was 2,600, while of the Americans but seven were killed, and
six wounded, a disproportion of loss not recorded of any
other battle. Thus closed the military operations on land. At
sea there had been spirited engagements, in which the American
naval character was proved to stand a comparison with that of
the British.
11. Peace had in the meantime been concluded between the
9, Relate the operations of general Ross, and the events in connexion. —
lO, Relate the invasion and defence of New Orleans.
468 PEACE NEGOTIATED AT GHENT.
Modern Ms. two nations, by a treaty negotiated at Ghent. Changes in Eu-
P'R'D viii. roPe nac* done away that part of the subject of complaint on the
chap, in.' side of the Americans which related to commerce; and the ques-
v-^~^*w/ tion concerning the claim of the British to search neutral ves-
1815. sels, for the purpose of impressment, was waived. But the
Peace Of Americans had shown the British, that it could not with impu-
Gheilt. nity be exercised on them. Before the intelligence of peace
onbotSes cou^ De communicated to the naval commanders on distant
restored, stations, other naval actions were fought, which terminated in
the triumph of the American arms. Peace with America, was
(This peace at this moment fortunate for England ; for Napoleon, her old
ted b™Aiex- and most dreaded enemy, soon after broke loose from Elba, and
ander of repossessed himself of the throne of France. Upon an emer-
gency so unexpected, all the energies of the British empire were
needed, and, as we have before seen, put in requisition. We
have also seen the result. Napoleon delivered himself to Eng-
land, declaring that he considered her the noblest of his foes.
11. What treaty was made? Were the points in dispute arranged?
Why was peace favorable to England ?
The Battle of Waterloo.
PERIOD IX.
THE BATTL
THE PRESENT
OR TIME
xl 1815 £
TO
?1844r.£
OF WATERLOO.
OF CLOSING THIS
HISTORY.
CHAPTER I.
Brazil and Portugal. — Revolutions in America and Europe.
1. The removal of John VI. of Portugal, and the Portuguese Modern His
government, in 1808, to Brazil, was the commencement of that perpd ix
great South American empire. The Brazilian government open- chap. i.
ed their ports to all friendly nations ; abolished the inquisition ^-^wv^
and the slave trade, and entered into an advantageous treaty of
alliance and commerce with England. In 1815, John VT. re- aSSi"
turned to Portugal, and his son, Pedro, administered the go- inde-
vernment. The Brazilians now asserted their independence, ^fpor-
formed a constitution, and elected that prince emperor, under tusaI-
the title of Pedro I. Portugal acknowledged the independence Pedro i. §
of Brazil, and the emperor exchanged ministers and treaties with
foreign nations.
2. John VI. died in Portugal, March 10th, 1826. By the
constitution of Brazil, Pedro the emperor, to whom the crown
of Portugal now belonged, could not leave the new empire*, and
he resigned Portugal to his young daughter, Maria de Gloria.
Miguel, brother of Pedro, contested her right, and was aided
J*
Period IX. — Chap. I. — 1. Who was sovereign of Portugal at the time
of the government's removal to Brazil? When did the removal occur ?
What were the first acts of the government? What occurred in 1815 ? — 2.
How was Pedro situated on the death of his father, and what course did
he take ? 469
1832.
470 CIVIL WARS OF PORTUGAL.
Modern His, Dy the nobility and the priests. The constitutionalists and pa-
perpd ix. triots were in favor of Maria, who at their request, crossed the
chap. i. ocean. But as Miguel was waging a war of extermination
against her partisans, she was first taken to London, and then
back to Brazil. In the meantime, the native Brazilians had de-
manded reforms in the administration, which were by no means
agreeable to the Portuguese. Pedro wavered between the
parties, and each was displeased with the concessions made to
the other. Both the army and the people were against the em-
peror. On the 8th of April, 1831, he abdicated in favor of his
Pedro ii. hifant soni Pedro II., a native of Brazil. A regency being es-
His father tablished, he embarked with his daughter Maria, and the rest of
PorS0 his family, for Portugal.
3. Leaving Maria in France, Pedro entered his hereditary do-
minions, and summoned his brother to surrender to the queen,
his daughter. The cruelties of Miguel, had already arrayed
against him the liberal party of the Portuguese, who now rallied
under Pedro. The Portuguese clergy branded the adherents
civiTwar in of Pedro and his daughter as heretics, with whom no faith was
Portugal. to ke kept- and thus throughout Portugal was civil war sharp-
1833. ened by religious persecution. The fleet of Miguel was cap-
Juiy 4th. tured ; Lisbon surrendered, and the usurper fled to Spain. The
renders to populace rallied, proclaimed Maria, broke open the prisons,
Maria. an^ liberated more than -5,000 prisoners. The queen's right
was acknowledged by the high powers of Europe •, the clergy
were humbled, the convents were suppressed, and their property
conflscated to the state. Courts of justice were instituted on
(Maria was the model of those of England and France, and the trial by jury
lSYtoason established. Miguel, however, still kept up a cruel partisan
of Eugene warfare; when, on the 24th of April, 1834, a quadruple alliance
noi3Uhand was signed between the powers of Portugal, Spain, France and
3oon after Great Britain. This treaty guarantied the throne of Portugal
1836, to\he to Maria II., and also engaged to expel from Portugal the usur-
du^eb°ufrSaxe per Don Miguel. An adequate force was despatched from Eng-
land to aid Maria in maintaining her authority. Under these
circumstances Portugal was of course ruled by that nation.
Spain had, by a singular coincidence, its young queen Isabella
II., whose claim was upheld by the liberal party, and a usurper-
1834- uncle, Don Carlos, who was sustained by the royalists and
Quadruple clergy. The Quadruple Alliance also guarantied the claims of
Alliance. Isabella, and engaged to expel Carlos.
4. THE AMERICAN COLONIES OF SPAIN.— The jeal-
ous policy of Spain had led her to suppress, as much as
%. Give an account of Miguel. What was done with the little queen by
those who conducted her to Europe ? What occurred in Brazil, and what
new arrangements were made ? Who went to Portugal ? — 3. What was
done by Pedro, and who rallied under his banner ? Who were against him
and his daughter, and what was the condition of Portugal ? What successes
had Pedro against Miguel? What number of prisoners were liberated?
Who acknowledged the queen's right? What was done with respect to
the convents? Courts of justice ? What powers formed a quadruple al-
liance ? What did the alliance guarantee in respect to the government of
Portugal ? What in respect to Spain ?
SIMON EOLIVAR. 471
possible, all intercourse between her extensive American colo- Mod*™ His-
nies and the rest of the world. Wearied with despotism, and perpd ix.
disgusted with the quarrels and crimes of the reigning family, chap. i.
these provinces took advantage of the invasion of Spain by Na- ^-*»p-v~,w
poleon, and asserted their independence. This opened an in- They claim
tercourse between them and foreign nations, and their history ence.
thenceforth began to be known.
5. In 1806, general Miranda, a native of Caraccas, who i§06.
had served with reputation in the armies of republican France, ^ gjjjj}'
made a generous, but premature attempt to liberate his native America,
country. But in 1810, the patriots rose again, and although
general Murillo, with 10,000 troops was sent from Spain,
yet the Spanish authorities were deposed, and a new govern-
ment organized, under the name of the " Confederation of Vene- l§10.
zuela." A congress assembled, independence was declared, Venezuela
and a constitution on republican principles was adopted. But dependence,
the numerous clergy were hostile, and soon found an occasion
to arrest the progress of public opinion, in the fatal earthquake
which occurred March 26, 1812. On that day at 4 o'clock, 181*2.
P. M , with scarce a minute's warning, 4,500 dwellings and 19 Earthquake
churches were swallowed up, and 8,000 people went down to at caraccas,
one common grave. The priests represented this dreadful phe-
nomenon as a sign of the particular wrath of heaven, inflicted
upon a rebellious and disobedient country, for daring to alter
their political condition. The people were dismayed, and the
whole province again submitted to royal authority.
6. In 1813, this province was again emancipated by the bold 1S13.
genius and successful military operations of Simon Bolivar. AjJJjJ^?:
In repeated battles he conquered the Spaniards, expelled them plants the
from his native country, and then entering New Granada, he sSJepend°-f
drove them from Carthagena, its capital, which he entered on ence in car-
the 16th of August. Buenos Ayres became independent in
1816, Chili in 1818,Peru and Guatemala in 1821. The Spanish
authorities continued to resist, until their defeat at the great
battle of Ayacucho. The power of Spain over these extensive
countries is broken, and their independence of foreign domi-
nion established. But they seem destined to be rent by domes-
tic factions, and the lawless desire for power, of ambitious mi-
litary chieftains.
7. MEXICO. — While under the government of Spain, Mexico
was a viceroyalty ; the viceroy having all the powers of a king.
The Mexicans declared independence in 1813. Iturbide, an
4. What policy had Spain pursued with regard to her American colo-
nies ? With what were their people wearied and disgusted ? What circum-
stances did they take advantage of, and what do ? — 5. Who made the first at-
tempt to free a Spanish colony,— lSwhen was it made, and how did it suc-
ceed? What was done in 1810? What occasion was seized by the priests,
and what did they do ? — 6. By whom was Venezuela finally emancipated ?
What is related of New Grenada? Of Buenos Ayres? Of Chili? Of
Peru and Guatemala, or Central America ? At what battle was the Spanish
power in America entirely broken ? — 7. What was Mexico while under
Spain? When did Mexico declare independence?
thagena.
1S2S.
472 MEXICO INDEPENDENT.
Modem His, ambitious Mexican, at first opposed the revolution. In 1815,
peri'DIX. ne destroyed or drove to the mountains, all the revolutionary
chiefs, except Guerrero ; and in 1822 he restored the vice-
royalty. Iturbide then raised his own standard, and caused
himself to be proclaimed emperor, under the title of Augustine
1. The populace shouted him, and drew his carriage through
the streets of Mexico. But a powerful party, headed by Vit-
toria, Guerrero, Santa Anna, and other distinguished military
men, opposed the new government, and after a bloody struggle,
Complied ^ie emPeror was5 m 1823, compelled to abdicate ; but he was
to abdicate, allowed to take refuge in Europe on a pension. In 1824 Itur-
1&24. bide returned; but he was a Napoleon in no one's estimation
^turbide's ' ^ut n^s own '■> an(^ as soon as ne stepped upon the shore of his
death. country, he was arrested and shot.
8. The constitution of 1824 was adopted, and in 1825, the
Mexican flrst constitutional congress assembled. Two political parties,
constitution. , _, , ? . Oor» ■, • t
the Scotch and Yorkists, were in 1823, arrayed against each
other in the choice of president. After an arduous contest, the
election resulted in the choice of Gen. Pedraza, of the Scotch
party, over Guerrero, candidate of the York party, by a majority
Guerrero °f two votes. General Santa Anna, at the head of the military,
made presi- proclaimed Guerrero president. After some fighting, Pedraza
litary force was compelled to yield, and Guerrero was inaugurated president
in 1829.
9. Gen. Bustamente, of the Scotch party, having been
elected vice president, placed himself in his turn at the head of
a body of troops, and denounced the president Guerrero. He
nut ^nr,anA advanced upon the capital, and Guerrero finding himself too
(Mexico and ,r . r i &
Texas being weak to Avithstand him, abdicated the presidency, and general
"toour1?"-8 Bustamente was elected by the army as his successor. In 1831,
public, we Santa Anna, after having been for some time in a state of rebel-
detaifedhis- lion against the president Bustamente, on the 15th of July issued
tory,asmore an exciting proclamation, — calling on the Mexicans to arm
interesting, o it / o
and better against him. At length, in 1833, after sanguinary conflicts, Santa
understood.) ^nna prevailed over Bustamente; and established himself in
1SS3. power, and by some sort of an election, was made president.
?eX™if\var ^° mnuman scenes of civil war and bloodshed, the cholera
and Asiatic this year added its ravages ; and 22,000 persons are supposed to
cholera. jiave perished with this plague in the capital only.
10. The administration of Santa Anna commenced with some
^1§35. acts favorable to liberty and toleration. Ecclesiastical tithes,
president, monastic vows, and the authority of the pope were abolished ;
Polforms.re" ana- tne education of youth taken out of the hands of the priests.
Five free colleges were established upon the ruins of the monk-
T. Give some account of Iturbide. Who were the chiefs of the opposing
party, and what was done by them ? Give the sequel of the history of Itur-
bide.—8. What occurred in 1824 ? What in 1825 ? What in 1828 and 29 ?
— 9. Relate the contest between the generals Bustamente and Santa Anna.
What year did the cholera appear, and how many died of it in the city of
Mexico ? — lO. Give an account of the administration of Santa Anna before
the battle of Guadaloupe.
TEXAS REVOLTS.
473
Modern His.
ish institutions ; and professors, either native or foreign, were
employed without regard to religious tenets. But the old clergy perpdix.
had still great power with the people ; and revolts against the CHAP- J-
president, broke out in several of the states of the Mexican v-*"^/-^«^
confederacy. At Guadaloupe, Santa Anna, having obtained a ^octpje"
decisive victory over the insurgent general, Garcia, became Santa Anna
the idol of his army, and was greeted by the sounding title of ^urgems
the " illustrious savior of his country." under
11. New principles were now introduced into the adminis-
tration. With the ostensible view of restraining the turbulence
arising from the imperfections of the federative system, Santa
Anna procured a constitutional decree to be enacted, changing
the form of government, to that which was termed, " A popular
representative central system, — based upon the Roman catholic gama Anna
religion, on the independence and indivisibility of the actual has the con-
territory, on the division of the power of the government, and mStaryS
the freedom of the press." And of this incongruous govern- joins the
ment, the object of which was despotism, cloaked with fair taking free-
words, Santa Anna was constituted "president and supreme domtrom
■ • n r i • 7 r • r i r , ,,, the people.
chief ol tne nation, and protector oj its votes jreety expressed '.
The supreme chief was fast consolidating his government; but
he met with opposition, chiefly from the English and Anglo-
American part of the population. Against those, the Spaniards
were inspired with hatred ; in consequence of which, an inhu-
man massacre took place at Zacatecas.
12. TEXAS in extent of territory, was one of the most con-
siderable states of Mexico. Being contiguous to the republic
of America, it was filling fast with some of the most enterprising
citizens of its states. They believed that Mexico would adhere
to republican principles ; and they were attracted by the fertility
of Texas, and its other natural advantages. Besides these
there was another class, composed of insolvent debtors, and
other persons from the United States, who were less likely to
make good inhabitants in their newly chosen country. But all
had been nurtured in the lap of civil liberty, and taught to Texag re_
believe that the people's rights were sacred ; and they all refused voitsagainst
to adopt the changed government introduced by Santa Anna. gantaAmfa
They nullified his laws, resisted his custom house officers, and
in some places drove them from the territory. Santa Anna
issued his manifesto against the inhabitants of Texas. They
fearlessly prepared to contest their independence. The San
Felipe, a vessel manned by Texians, fought and took a Mexi-
can vessel of war. Santa Anna despatched general Cos,
with a strong force, to the mouth of the river Brassos.
General Houston assumed the command of the Texian forces.
lO. Relate the battle of Guadaloupe.— 11. Did Santa Anna, like Wash-
ington, remain true to his country after power was in his hands, or did he
then change his course? — 12. Give some account of Texas, and its inha-
bitants. What ground did they take respecting Santa Anna's subversion
of the Mexican constitution ? What measures did they take to resist the
power of Santa Ana ? What military operations occurred ?
60
474 TEXAS DECLARES INDEPENDENCE.
Modern His. He took Bahia, the fort of Goliad, and finally, with severe loss
peri'D ix. on DOtn sides, he conquered the Alamo, — the name given to a
chap. i. fortress in San Antonia de Bexar.
v-rf^v^w 13. On the 2d of March, 1836, a convention of delegates,
1835. chosen for that purpose, drew up and published, in the name of
fMeXtaken tne PeoP^e °f Texas, an able Declaration of Independence; —
°is3€.n although they were at the same time menaced by Santa Ana, who
March 2. Qn the 6th of March, arrived at the Alamo, (on the borders of
Texian De- Texas,) with an army of from three to six thousand men. That
Claratioil fortress was defended by 180 Texians, under the command of
of Illde- COLoNEL Travis. Santa Ana commenced an assault about
pendence. midnight. At dawn only seven men of the garrison were found
Mthe' alive. They cried for quarter, and being refused, renewed the
*LJiMO.} battle, and fought till every man was slaughtered. More than
cruelty, one thousand of the assailants are said to have perished.
180 killed. 14 After the fall of the Alamo, general Houston with about 1000
men, fell back upon the Colorado. Colonel Fanning with a
qoliad. garrison of 500 was left to defend Goliad ; but, inferior in force,
SneiFan- ne evacuated the fortress. Santa Anna pursued, and cut off his
ningwitn retreat; when Fanning surrendered upon the faith of being
500 men treateci according- to the rules of Christian warfare : but Santa
Anna caused him and his men instantly to be put to death.
Elated and confident, he then hastened to engage the main body
1836 °^ t^ie Texians, encamped upon the Brassos, whom his cruelty
April 2i] had wrought to fury. Houston, bearing down upon his ene-
jacijvto m^es? thrice his own number, brought them to action so close,
Houston and as to be within half rifle distance; and in less than thirty
defeatesanta minutes compelled them to flee. This battle secured the inde-
Anna, and pendence of Texas. Among the prisoners was Santa Anna
dependence, himself, who after being detained some months in captivity, was
set at liberty. A new constitution was adopted, and general
Houston was elected president.
15. THE GREEK REVOLUTION.— The desire of liberty
among the people, and a just appreciation of human rights, dis-
1820-21 tinguishes the nineteenth century. In 1820-21 it manifested it-
stmggies of self not only in the rising republics of America, but in Spain,
the people. portugai? -^ap\e^ Piedmont,— and lastly, in the Turkish em-
pire, where in Greece it produced permanent effects. The sove-
reigns of Europe banded together in what they called " The
Holy Alliance ;'" interfered to frustrate the wishes of the people
in the other countries, notwithstanding they asked merely for
?ergtnedcon- constitutional monarchies. Greece, though a Christian nation
test, inter- under Mahometan rule, would have fared no better, had not
Greece°r Great Britain prevented the Holy Alliance from interfering
13. What was done on the 2d of March, 1836? Describe the military-
operations till after the fall of Alamo. — 1*. From the fall of Alamo to the
battle of San Jacinto. Relate that battle and its consequences. — 15. By
what is the nineteenth century distinguished ? How did this spirit manifest
itself in the years 1820-21 ? Why did not the effects of this spirit, thus mani-
fested by the people, become permanent ? To what empire did Greece at
this time belong? Why did not the Holy Alliance prevent the emancipation
of Greece ?
REVOLT OF THE GREEKS. 475
against her emancipation, wrought out by the desperate valor Mode™ His,
of her sons. That interference was not, however, at this time, peri'd ix.
16. Russia as we have seen, had often in her employ able chap. i.
foreigners. Such were the Greeks, count Capo D'Istrias, ^*»r-v^^^
Alexander Ypsilanti and others. Their hearts were set upon Gre,eu1fi^vo"
the release of their country; and the Russian authorities, willing begins
to weaken the Porte, that they might take its provinces, en-
couraged them by hopes of aid, to raise the standard of revolt.
They formed a secret society, called "the Hetaireia," who were
bound by oath to stand for each other, and for the liberties of
Greece. They then openly revolted. The Turks, of course,
made war upon them to reduce them to submission. Russia
having thus divided the Turkish empire against itself, treache-
rously withheld her promised aid, and left the Greeks to fight
their own battles. The struggle with them was now not only
for liberty but for life ; and there is nothing in the history of
ancient Greece to compare with the fierce valor, with which the
modern Greeks resisted their oppressors. Even their women
took arms.
17. Turkish vengeance attacked first the Greek clergy, and 1821.
Gregory, the venerable patriarch of Constantinople, was barba- The patri-
rously slain, at the door of his sanctuary. This act roused the "anSnopie
Greeks ; and appalling horrors were perpetrated in the conflicts 9lain-
which ensued. The Greeks were without a government, and
without support, except what they received from charitable as-
sociations in Great Britain, France, and America. Yet they
proceeded in 1822, to form a union under an independent fede- 1822.
rative government. The Persians having now invaded the aegovern-m
Turkish empire, the sultan was obliged to send a powerful ment-
army to the Euphrates; and he also placed a strong military
force upon the Danube, to watch certain hostile movements of
Russia. One of his own vassals, also, the bold and desperate
Ali Pacha, of Albania, was in open rebellion against him.
These troubles compelled him for a season to relax his opera-
tions against the revolted Greeks; but having at length pur-
chased a peace with Persia, beheaded Ali Pacha, and entered
into friendly relations with Russia, he was again ready to pro-
secute the Greek war.
18. Fifteen thousand of the most barbarous of the Asiatic Scio. Pop.
Turks were let loose upon the beautiful island of Scio. The The gcio'tea
Sciotes resisted, but were overpowered, and their little paradise massacred,
laid waste, — and 40,000 men, women, and unresisting children,
were massacred, while 30,000 were carried into Mahometan
16. What Greeks were in the service of Russia, what did they desire,
and what encouragement did they have ? What did they then do ? What
part did Russia now take ? What was the character of the struggle in
which the Greeks were now engaged? — IT. Who were the first objects of
the vengeance of the Turks ? In what year did the Greeks form an inde-
pendent government ? What circumstances for a time called off the atten-
tion of the Turks from the Greek war? — 18. What was the first act of the
Turks after this suspension ? What numbers were massacred and carried
away prisoners at Scio ?
476
ENGLAND INTERFERES FOR GREECE.
Modern His-
PERPD IX.
CHAP. I.
1824.
(The Greeks
raised
money by a
loan obtain-
ed in Eng-
land.)
(Lord By-
ron, the Na-
poleon of
poetry, died
at Missolon-
ghi, having
embarked
himself and
his fortune
in the gene-
rous cause
of Grecian
liberty.)
I8»*.
The Treaty
of London,
Settles the
affairs of
Greece.
182T
Battle of
MAVARI-
JVO.
Peace.
captivity. The Turkish fleet now took onboard the murderers ;
who were prepared to desolate the Morea. The Ipsariotes, .
having secured their families, went on board their little fleet. .
With the courage of desperation they then grappled their fire s
ships to the ship commanded by the Turkish admiral, which i
blew up with terrible destruction. The commander himself, ,
and nearly three thousand of his men perished in the explosion. .
19. Kurchid Pacha, at the head of 25,000 Turks, passed I
the straits of Thermopylae, and inhumanly laid waste the Mo- •
rea. The Greek chieftains, Nichetas, Demetrius Ypsilanti, ,
and Colocotroni, occupied the straits which the enemy had I
passed, and cut off his communications. The Turkish com- >
mander, reduced to extremities, offered to evacuate the Grecian i
territory, which was refused him. He then made a desperate \
effort to break through the Greek defences in the night. But I
Nichetas fell upon the confused and bewildered Turks, and cut I
up and destroyed the whole army. After this, the Turks made
but little progress in Greece, until Ibrahim Pacha, of Egypt,
was appointed by the sultan governor of Greece, and charged I
with the management of the war. He opened the campaign of
1826 with energy, and the conquest of Greece seemed inevita-
ble. In this alarming crisis, the Greeks implored aid of the j
Christian powers.
20. England now interfered in earnest, and on the 6th of I
July, 1827, by The Treaty of London, the ministers of Great I
Britain, France, and Russia, guarantied the pacification of
Greece, and the ministers of the three powers notified the i
Turkish government, that " Greece must thereafter govern her-
self." The Turks rejected the offered pacification of the three
powers, and Ibrahim, with the Turkish-Egyptian fleet, entered
the bay of Navarino. While lying there in order of battle, the
combined British, French and Russian fleets approached, and a
deadly conflict ensued. The Turkish armada of 110 ships
fought with desperation. Not a flag was struck, and the whole
fleet, was either burnt, sunk, or disabled. Hostilities now
ceased, and the sultan soon after acceded to the treaty of
London.
2L The Greeks had chosen a republican form of govern- -
ment, and made count Capo d'lstrias their president; but the
combined powers, having decided that the government must be :
monarchical, conferred the crown upon prince Otho, second i
son of Louis, king of Bavaria. His ministers have been occu-
pied in organizing the government. They have gratified the :
people by establishing the religion of the ancient Greek church.
18. What was done by the men of Ipsara ? — 19. What military opera-
tions are next related ? When the great commander, Ibrahim Pacha, was I
sent to Greece by the sultan, what occurred ? — 20. What power now inter-
fered, and what treaty was made ? What notice was given to the Turkish
authorities, and how did they receive it ? Relate the battle which followed,
with its results. — 21. What government had the Greeks chosen? What
form of government did the allied powers impose upon them, and whom
give them for a king ?
DEPRESSION SUCCEEDS WAR. 477
Commerce and agriculture begin to revive and schools are en- Modern H™-
couraged. On the 5th of July, 1834, a royal decree was made perpd ix.
to encourage the spreading of female education over Greece, by CHAP- "•
the establishment of a school at Athens for the instruction of ^«^v^v^
female teachers, a measure worthy of the genius of this inter- 1S34.
esting people. The Greeks had been long expecting and pe- SchooiwSas
titioning for a charter of their rights, — a constitution defining projected by
the limits of the authorities set over them. Not receiving this ltSmthe
just claim, they entered into a combination, and in the sum- u- States")
mer of 1843 compelled Otho to grant them a constitutional go- G*8^?'
vernment. stitution1!"
CHAPTER II,
The British Empire.
1. Until the close of the wars of the French revolution, the 1816-
attitude of Great Britain had been warlike. She had stood the a1? Deb?"
bulwark of Europe against the encroachments of Napoleon ; Funded
but in so doing had subjected herself to immense sacrifices. £816,-'
Her debt amounted to more than the whole resources of the u'n-
kingdom, if applied to no other purpose, could pay in forty f"n4d1ed'
years. As usual, war had been a season of excitement and in- 000,000
toxication; and peace, like the sudden withdrawal of a fever,
made the nation languid and almost perishing from exhaustion.
Hundreds of thousands had been provided for, who were at ThiaftVe
once thrown out of employ ; the nation expending less by years of I g
^•50,000,000 annually, than in the years of the war. Want G\Btt~
bred discontent and murmurs. America, the best customer of tain an_
England,* was suffering a similar depression, so that foreign expend-
trade failed to afford relief. Seasons were unfavorable, and har- ^Jjjj!?1
vests scanty • wages low,and provisions high. Laborers pressed 000,000.
by necessity, combined to extort higher wages. Masters could fJJ?
give no more, and discharged their operatives. Writers took ad- years of
vantage of these disaffections to sow disorganizing principles, £64,-'
and the faults of the English government, real and imaginary, 0|?^0,
became the agitating theme of her discontented people, — as vast stmiess.,
* So much the best customer, that when in 1836 all the exports from
Great Britain to every part of the world, including her own provinces,
amounted to .£53,368,000, those to our republic were £12,425,000,— -nearly
one-quarter of the whole.
21. What is said of religion and education in Greece 1 What has lately
taken place in Greece in respect to a constitution ?
Chap. II. — 1. What was the attitude of Great Britain during the wars
with Napoleon? What do you learn of her national debt in 1816 ? What
was the first effect of peace ? What was the difference of the national ex-
penditure during the last years of the war and the first of the peace ? What
was the actual expenditure in each ? (See side note.) Describe the progress
of discontent among the people.
478 RADICAL REFORMERS — MANCHESTER.
Modem His. assemblages met in the open air. Workmen coming forth from
peri'D ix. tneir numbers, harangued them on their poverty contrasted
chap. ii. with the luxury of those, who doing nothing, rioted in the na-
s^^v-'w' tion's wealth. These orators chiefly fixed on the grievance of
r ("Rot- the unequal representation in the house of commons, — by which
roughs," Manchester, with 187,000 inhabitants, and other large manufac-
plh<?eh turing cities, had no representative in parliament, while the bo-
since rough of Old Sarum, with only twelve inhabitants, and fifty
1 when6 otners similarly situated and called " rotten boroughs," were
the re- each represented. The cry of these people was for a radical
Ptation reform of these abuses. Hence they were called "The Radicals."
was ap- a fleet was sent to Algiers under lord Exmouth, who put an
Pe°dhad" entire stop to the piracy of the Algerines, — a good work begun
declined ^y t}le Americans. After the city had been bombarded by the
lation.) English, the Dey bound himself by treaty to deliver all Chris-
tian slaves, and no more to make Christian captives.
2. In 1817-18, a gleam of commercial prosperity, operating
with the vigilance of the ministry in apprehending the itinerant
orators, produced a temporary calm ; but in 1819, the orators
being set at liberty, the disturbances became more alarming
than before; and, in both England and Scotland, vast field meet-
ings were held, and the throne and the houses of parliament
were overwhelmed with petitions. The more violent were pre-
paring by secret organization and nocturnal trainings, to raise
1819. the standard of open rebellion. On the 16th of August 50,000
"""Mass" People °f all ages and Dotn sexes, went forth from Manchester
Meet- to hold a peaceful meeting in the fields, with banners where
lnvian-n floated the characters " Liberty or Death," " Annual Parlia-
chester. ments," u No Corn Laws," &c. None wore an offensive wea-
Massa- pon, and the speaker was just expressing his confident hope of
ere, or their quiet demeanor, when suddenly a body of calvary came
tary upon them, dashed through their thickest ranks, trampling them
Uon'C'Uof *° death? and cutting them down with sabres ! Thus more
4oo. . than 400 peaceable citizens were massacred. This severe mea-
sure was followed, Nov. 13th, by " The Six .#cfc," which em-
bodied strong measures for preventing riotous assemblages, —
empowering magistrates to enter houses to search for arms by
day or night. These measures produced quiet, but not content.
1S20. ^' ^n tne death °f tne aged and insane monarch, George III.,
Jan. 29. the prince regent, now George IV., was invested with full so-
lvent vereignty. He was an immoral man. No cruelty, exercised on
ceeds the mind and character, could exceed that, with which he had
hthera" treated his wife, Caroline of Brunswick. She was a woman
of high spirit, and being made unhappy in England, she had
been abroad for some years. She now came home to claim a
1. What grievance was complained of? Describe the origin of the term
"the Radicals." What did Lord Exmouth accomplish? — 2. What was
the state of things in 1817-18 ? Relate the occurrences of the 16th of Au-
gust, 1819, at Manchester. What was done by parliament the November
following ? — 3. Who became king, and at what time ? What was his char-
acter and his treatment of his wife ? Who was she ?
CATHOLIC EMANCIPATION. 479
part in the approaching1 coronation. Her return was met by a Modern His-
prosecution for breach of the marriage vow, instituted by her peri'D ix.
husband, and odious to the nation ; as the prosecutor was no- chap, no-
toriously guilty himself, and had done every thing the opposite N* *'"v"**-/
of affording her a husband's protection. After a trial she was 1821- "
acquitted by the judges ; but she was not allowed to share in corona-
the coronation. This was celebrated with pomp, and at an ex- ti°n of
pense of £282,000; notwithstanding it was a season of such Gejyfe
distress in Ireland, that more than 200,000 persons were with-
out the means of subsistence, and many were daily starving to
death.
4. In the succeeding years England took a ground with re- 1S22.
gard to European affairs which entitles her to the gratitude of Con-
the world. The " Holy Alliance," by their measures at the Verona,
congress of Verona, had fully developed their hostility to all
claims of constitutional liberty on the part of the people. Eng-
land checked their proceedings, and at length virtually broke
the league. She caused the independence of Greece from the
Turkish yoke to be recognized, but her sovereign united with
the others in prohibiting a republican form of government, and
imposing on that people a foreign king.
5. The catholics in Ireland had suffered since their conquest
by William III., grievous privations; but their condition had
been gradually made better. In 1778 a law was abolished by
which children of that denomination were deprived of the inhe-
ritance of parents ; and another which forbade a catholic to keep
school on pain of imprisonment. In 1791 their places of wor-
ship and schools were tolerated, and they were allowed to prac-
tise law. In 1793 they were permitted to hold offices in the
army and navy. The catholic question was again agitated, and
lord John Russel introduced a bill by which the catholics RU°ssei's
were permitted. to share in all municipal offices of power and "^°[^"
trust. But they were yet dissatisfied, and in Ireland, " The Ca- and
tholic Association," at the head of which is Daniel O'Connell, bJ?.")
contrived means to get so entire a control over the whole
catholic population comprising the greater part of the Irish
, people, as to levy a tribute from them under the name of rent. 1§29.
The duke of Wellington became prime minister, and contrary "^J!10"
I to expectation he made it his policy to settle this question by Emanci-
! concession. He therefore, though with great difficulty, carried patlon-''
through parliament laws granting the catholics the highest of-
fices in the judiciary and the legislature. O'Connell, however,
i soon found other subjects of agitation, and contrived to keep . ■ .
and increase his authority over the people. His present subject fairs to
' of complaint is the legislative union of Ireland with England,
I 3. What course did she pursue ? What is said of the coronation as to
; expense ? What better use does it seem that the money might have been
put to, as it respects the people of Ireland ? — 4. What is said of the course
\ of England and that of the Holy Alliance ? — 5. Give an account of the pro-
1 gress of emancipation in Ireland up to the time of the Wellington ministry.
What policy did Wellington pursue, and what carry through parliament?
What subject of agitation have employed O'Connell and his party?
1
o
\
\
1844.
480
Modem Hi s. and the " Repeal" meetings in Ireland held under his auspices,
have been attended by hundreds of thousands. Recently he
has been apprehended, tried, and imprisoned.
6. William IV. succeeded his brother, George IV. The French
'1830. revolution of the "Three Days" brought afresh to the people
^n'w desires f°r lne reformation of abuses, especially of the unequal
pbrlla- representation in the house of commons. The house itself was
meets. now favorable to the REFORM. The Reform Bill was brought
1832. m ky L0R1) Brougham, and after many struggles on the part
June 7. of its friends, it passed to the great joy of the nation at large.*
BebSim Old Sarum,and lifly-five other "rotten boroughs," whose mem-
passes, hers had been sent into the house of commons, either by the
crown or nobility, were by this bill disfranchised ; and 42
manufacturing cities and flourishing places, were now first em-
powered to send their representatives, in Hanover the people
felt the impulse towards an increase of political liberty, and the
English government gave them a new constitution, by which
they have a legislature of two branches. Some one of the royal
lj8a« family of England is to constitute the chief executive. In 1833,
Slavery Great Britain abolished colonial slavery ; parliament granting
abo- £20,000,000 to remunerate the slave owners. Mr. Wileer-
force was the prime mover in these benevolent acts.
1884. 7. \\\ 1834, parliament passed " the Poor Law Amendment
'law Act." The poor laws in England and Wales had dispensed
iid- large sums to the poor; but great abuses had been reported to
parliament by persons employed to investigate. Paupers were
so provided for, that their condition was better than that of the
independent laborer, who had to sustain his part of the enor-
mous expenditure. By the many officers employed in dispen-
sing the fund a considerable part of it was absorbed. The
" Amendment Act" provided that the relief of the poor should
be placed in the hands of three commissioners, who are em-
powered to appoint their assistants. This " triumvirate" system
was regarded as an experiment which time must test, and com-
plaints have arisen under its operation. The great amount of
pauperism led to the belief that the population was in excess,
and the consequent encouragement of emigration. At least
(1S34 10o,()00 annually leave Great Britain for Canada, the United
\S'Mh States, Australia, and the Cape of Good Hope. These last
!1(;- places are fast rising to consequence. The English parliament
gave attention to national reforms. Lord Brougham brought
forward in the house of commons, plans of popular education,
* The principal supporters of this bill,— lord Brougham, lo.rd John Rus-
sel, carl Grey, and lord Althorpe, received presents of gold cups purchased
by penny subscriptions, to which 300,000 persons contributed.
aine
inent
Pr
rity
and re-
forms.)
6. Who succeeded George IV.? What do you understand by the Re-
form Bill, and what can you relate respecting it ? What was done in Han-
over? What laws did parliament make regarding slavery ? What liberal
sum appropriate? — t. What is said of the operation of the poor laws ? Of
their amendment? Of emigration ? What further laws did this period of
reform produce ?
BRITISH EMPIRE IN THE EAST.
481
and lord John Russel a project for the " Reform of Municipal M"d<** m»
Corporations," which was passed into a law. perpd ix.
8. After a short reign in which England had made a great chap, il
and honorable advance in political liberty, industrial arts, and
mercantile enterprise, William IV. died, and was succeeded by
his neice, Victoria. Ernest, the oldest surviving son of
George III., became king of Hanover. A rebellion in Canada,
which Great Britain had ruled with
broken out, chiefly among the disaffected of the French popu-
lation, improperly aided by individuals of the United States.
But it appeared, that though the rebels showed fighting courage,
they had neither well digested plans, nor strict
the rebellion was soon crushed.
f(jttANlSTAN
9. THE BRITISH EMPIRE IN INDIA has continued to ex-
tend. In 1816 the isles of Mauritius and Bourbon were con-
quered from France. In 1815, by a war with the natives, the
English obtained Kumaoon and the mountain passes ; and the
same year the native kingdom of* Candy in Ceylon. In 1818,
a last effort of the Mahrattaa was quelled, and their whole ^JJnJJJJ
country subjected. In 1824, in a war with Birmah, the British £1,500,000
conquered its north-eastern states, which were ceded, together ^Jb,
with an annual tribute in 1825, at the Peace of Yandahu. In
Peace of
Yiiiidiibu.
Burmab
cede* five
8. What is remarked concerning the short reign of William IV.? Who
succeeded him ? Who became sovereign of Hanover? Give some account
of the rebellion in Canada. — 9. Give an account of the growth of the Bri-
tish empire in India.
61
482
THE FREE CHURCH OP SCOTLAND.
Modern His.
PERI'D IX.
CHAP. II.
Chinese
humbled be-
fore the
British.
Corrupt law
passed in
the reign of
Anne by the
influence of
the Boling-
broke.
ministry.
The party
headed by
Dr. Chal-
mers (called
"the Evan-
gelical par-
ty,") out-
number
their oppo-
nents, (call-
ed "the Mo-
derate par-
ty.")
1843.
May 18.
(The majori-
ty of the
Scottish
church de-
clare spi-
ritual inde-
pendence,
Christ being
sole head of
the church.)
1814 the charter of the East India Company was modified, their
monopoly limited to twenty years, and restricted to China.
At the close of 1833, the China trade being free to all British
subjects, difficulties occurred between the English traders and
the Chinese, in regard to the sale of opium, which the authori-
ties of that Empire had interdicted as hurtful to the people.
The English continued to bring large quantities ; the Chinese
took prisoners the merchants, and compelled them to throw
overboard the deleterious drug, to the value of £2,000,000. The
English government took up the quarrel, — attacked the Chinese,
and obtained such advantages, that the emperor made peace by
submitting to pay the English $11,000,000, to throw open five
of his ports, and cede in perpetuity the island of Hong-Kong.
10 Yet, with an empire on which the sun never sets, there
are dark home-bred clouds in the horizon of Great Britain.
She has a great national debt. The ardent Irish are ruled by
the catholics, and hence at enmity with the British govern-
ment ; and now its all powerful aristocracy have against them
in " the Free Church," the bone and sinew of the nationality of
Scotland. We have seen how, in the reign of queen Anne, the
Scots suffered their parliament to become merged into that of
England. It was, however, on the strict assurance that their
national church should be left free. But the union was no
sooner accomplished than the Bolingbroke ministry, to make
way for the restoration of the Stuarts, carried through parlia-
ment, a law distributing among the aristocracy of Scotland the
church benefices or livings ; so that congregations had no longer
the right to choose their own ministers.
11. The General Assembly of the Scottish church, though
dissatisfied, acquiesced at the time ; because the lay patrons uni-
versally made it a rule not to impose pastors on unwilling con-
gregations. In late years, attempts have been made to enforce
the law, according to its letter. The party opposed to the
usurpation, and headed by Dr. Chalmers, became the majority
of the General Assembly, which now refused to ordain pastors,
unless they were freely called by the people. The lay patrons
attempted to coerce them to ordain, by processes at the civil
law ; which they carried through, to the last appeal, — the British
house of lords, who gave the cause against the assembly, and
in favor of the lay patrons. Then, on the 18th of May, 1843,
when the Assembly met at Edinburgh, instead of proceeding to
business, the moderator declared that the Assembly could not
legislate for the Scottish church, for they were no longer free.
9. Give an account of the dispute between the English and Chinese.
How did it result ? — 11). What is said of the British empire ? Of the situa-
tion of home affairs as regards Ireland ? Scotland ? What assurance was
given to the Scottish people, and in whose reign ? What law was made, and
by whom? — 11. Why did the General Assembly of Scotland acquiesce
at the time ? What attempts have been made of late years ? What party
had a majority in the assembly ? What ground did they take ? What
course did the lay patrons pursue, and what decision obtain ? What great
and decisive step was then taken on the 18th of May, 1843 ?
" THE HOLY ALLIANCE." 483
He left the house, and five hundred ministers followed him, Jtfodern His-
multitudes of the people cheering them on. They met by perpd ix.
themselves, and by deed gave up all the church property ; — chap. hi.
their endeared churches, and pleasant parsonages ; thus stripping ^^vx/
themselves to the amount of 14,000,000 dollars. The people 1844.
sustained them ; and in a year $2,000,000 have been collected ^gjpjj
by voluntary contributions in Scotland, England and America; Church of
470 new churches have been built, and about 800 congregations collan
have been formed.
CHAPTER III.
France and the Holy Alliance, including a general view of Continental
Europe, from 1815 to 1844.
1. On the abdication of Napoleon the command of the French 1815.
army devolved on marshal Davoust. By a military conven- J£^-6,
tion with Blucher and Wellington, he withdrew his army behind xvm. re-
the Loire ; and Paris was again occupied with foreign troops, pJJjJJ
under whose protection, Louis XVI II., a second time, took pos- July 7.
session of the throne. France was now compelled to surrender *ar2 re~
some of her most nourishing provinces, — to maintain, for five
years, a foreign army, in eighteen fortresses on the north and ie0n &eS-
east,— to pay a tribute of 700,000,000 francs,— and to restore vte0rsthnei,Enlf
the works of art to the nations from which Napoleon had giish.)
taken them. Marshal Ney was condemned and shot, contrary
to the treaty of capitulation.
2. The sovereigns of Russia, Prussia, and Austria, signed at eparis' &
Paris, the league called the " Holy Alliance." They declared League of
in this, their determination to make Christianity the basis of the Holy
their actions, domestic and foreign. They asserted their divine Alliance.
right to govern " three branches of one and the same Christian (in 1818
nation." They invited England to become a party -but the Sworeato
regent declined giving his signature, although he expressed his support the
o o o o _ ' o r constitu-
approval. Austria sent armies to repress the free spirit of tion ; then
Naples. In June, 1815, Ferdinand IV. was restored. Murat, w^J1;
Avho had been deposed, made a foolish attempt to regain the gress of the
throne, — was taken as he landed on the shore, and afterwards ance re-"
shot. Alexander of Russia, having assumed the title of czar turned
and king of Poland, gave the Poles, by a charter, the semblance in Austrian
of constitutional liberty: and appointed Constantine, his brother, army, which
j • ^ • r r \i_ i -j made him
commander-in-chiel of the kingdom. absolute.)
11. What, for the sake of their religion, was relinquished by the Scottish
clergy ?
Chap. III. — 1. What occurred in Paris on the abdication of Napoleon ?
To what were the French compelled by the allies? What is related of
Marshal Ney ? — 2. What league was made at Paris ? By whom ? What
objects did it set forth? Which of the powers soon interfered with the
affairs of another nation ? What is said of Ferdinand ? (See side note.) What
was the fate of Murat ? What was done by Alexander in respect to Poland ?
484 USURPED POWERS OF THE HOLY ALLIANCE,
Modern His. 3, At the congress of Aix-la-Chapelle, France became a
peri'd ix. member of the Holy Alliance. This congress established the
chap. in. principle of an u armed intervention ;" or in other words, the
^^^^"-^ members of the Holy Alliance agreed to assist each other with
ISIS- their whole military force, against their own subjects, in case of
Cmonarchsf a revolt ^n either kingdom. At the congress which convened
at Aix-ia- at Troppau, these principles were still further extended, and the
°(i82o at' right was claimed to interfere by coercion in the domestic af-
Troppau. fairs of all other nations. This pretended right was exercised
bach^ 1822" in relation to the affairs of Spain, Portugal and Naples. The
at Verona.) pe0pie 0f au these kingdoms had obtained better securities for
their liberties, by adopting free constitutions. Their respective
rulers had sworn to be governed by them, and the citizens felt
that they had secured the blessings of liberty to themselves and
High hand- their posterity. But the " Holy Alliance" sent their armies, broke
of SSTSSy UP tne domestic arrangements of the people, abrogated their con- •
Alliance, stitutions, and restored the sovereigns to absolute power.
4. These acts of gross violence against the sovereignty of na- ■
tions, were abhorrent to all liberal men in Europe and America.
The government of the United States through president Monroe, ,
took solemn notice of them; and declared that such principles
Aihance sh°uld not De extended to any part of the American continent. .
may perhaps The philanthropist will however, indulge the hope, that not- •
more perfect withstanding the wrongs with which the Holy Alliance stands :
system of chargeable, that it contains within it the germ of a better order
confederT- of things ; and that there may yet be, in Europe, a tribunal where i
tion- nations may resort for the redress of real or supposed grievances. .
5. In France, the principles of the Holy Alliance created I
great excitement; and they were boldly denounced in the cham-
ber of deputies. The ministry became alarmed, and were pro-
ceeding to extreme measures, when public attention was di-
verted by the death of Louis XVNI. — His brother, the duke of
thecorona-' Artois, a bigot in politics and religion, ascended the throne,
^ tion of under the title of Charles X. As liberal ideas gained ground I
place at° with ^ie people, the government became more and more agi-
Rheims.) tated with alarm. The return of La Fayette, from a visit of
1S26- friendship to America, was watched with apprehension. The I
Return of arbitrary Villele was at the head of the ministry. He had ob-
from Ame- tained a majority in the French chamber of deputies by influ-
rica. encing the elections. But this short-sighted expedient only in-
creased the general disaffection.
6. Pending the struggle with Napoleon, the sovereigns of
Germany had promised their subjects, what, by their progress in i
3. What principles did the allied monarchs adopt at Aix-la-Chapelle, with i
regard to their own subjects ? What at Troppau in regard to interfering i
with the domestic affairs of other nations? What three nations attempted
to make free governments and were prevented ? By whom ? How ? — 4:.
How did this violation of the sovereignty of nations affect the minds of libe-
ral men ? What was done in America? What may be hoped, however,
concerning a tribunal for Europe? — 5. How did the French receive the doc-
trines of the Holy Alliance ? What change of sovereigns occurred ? What
is said in reference to La Fayette ? What is said of Villele ?
COMMERCIAL LEAGUE OP THE GERMAN STATES. 485
intelligence they ardently desired, constitutional governments ; Modern Hls-
but when the war was over, few remembered their engagements, perpdix.
The king of Bavaria and the duke of Baden, however, fulfilled CHAP- UI-
theirs in good faith. These states and Prussia have given great v-*r^^v-^
attention to primary education. A Commercial League, undei 1833-
the auspices of Prussia has been formed, connecting in a new CoflMfler-
bond almost all the states which formerly belonged to the Ger- CialLeagUC
manic body. This league is called the " Zoll Verein." $ the
7. Alexander I. of Russia, was not only a statesman and w^man
warrior, but an estimable man. Under his administration the States,
power of his vast and yet semi-barbarous empire was felt in f §26*
every court of Europe. On his death, which the civilized world December,
regretted, Constantine, his brother, was declared emperor. This ADeexand°efr.
prince was then administering the government of Poland. He Accession of
renounced his hereditary rights to his brother Nicholas, who
assumed the government, and dated his reign from the death of (?iql\^?s
Alexander. He repelled an invasion of the Persians under year, 1844,
Abbas Mirza, and compelled him to cede to Russia large ter- 7andh Hkf~
ritories on both sides of the river Araxes, and pay the expenses Peter, to
of the war. Nicholas has since manifested himself an able and miS un-
accomplished sovereign ; and is beloved by the Russians and re- prove-
spected by foreign nations.
8. xMahmoud II., the sultan of Turkey, took occasion from
an insurrection of the janizaries, to attack and destroy the dan-
gerous power of that body, the praetorians of Turkey. He
modelled his armies on the European system, and placed him-
self in a hostile attitude against Russia, then occupied with the 1828.
Persian war. The Russian forces, amounting to 200,000, in- War In-
vaded his kingdom, and after numerous sieges and battles, in sia and
which victory repeatedly changed sides, at length prevailed. Turkey-
Having passed the Balkan mountains, the Russians occupied Peace of
Adrianople, the second city in the Turkish empire, where, in Adrid-
18*29, they dictated the terms of a peace by which they ob- nople.
tained ihe free navigation of the Black Sea and Dardanelles.
Subsequently, by the treaty of Unkiar Skelessi, the Porte en-
gaged to close those straits against any other nation, at the de-
mand of Russia. This alarmed England lest Russia should, by
subjugating Turkey, get a preponderating power. The able
viceroy of Egypt, Mehemet Ale, sent his son Ibrahim with
an army, who overran Syria, and defeated the Turks at the bat- jc3«
tie of Konieh. The English interfered, and obliged Mehemet koj^tieh.
to withdraw his forces, and still acknowledge his vassalage to ^^"the5"
the sultan ; but his subjection is rather nominal than real. Turks, who
Egypt is improving under his auspices. lose 30'000
9. Ferdinand VII. of Spain, was, in 1830 sinking under dis-
6. What is said of Germany in regard to its progress ? To the promises of
the sovereigns and their fulfilment ? To education ? The commercial league ?
— T„ What was the character of Alexander of Russia? What is said of Nicho-
las ? — 8. What was done by Mahmoud of Turkey ? Give an account of the
war between Turkey and Russia. What was obtained by Russia at the
treaty of Adrianople ? Of Unkiar Skelessi ? What did the English appre-
hend? What occurred in Syria ? What did England oblige Mehemet to do?
486 SECOND FRENCH REVOLUTION.
Modern His. ease> Having no children, Don Carlos his brother was pre-
perpdix. sumptive heir to the crown; and the priests and ultra royalists
chap. in. believed that under his auspices they were to be restored to
"^^■/-**s their ancient influence. As this would be destruction to the
1833- existing government, Ferdinand was persuaded on the birth of
vYl^suc- a daughter, named Isabella, to abrogate the Salic law, declare
ceeded by her his successor, — and to constitute her mother, Christina,
The pariists regent. The followers of Don Carlos remonstrated ; but on the
r cruel adviia c^eatn °f Ferdinand in 1833, the arrangement went into effect,
war ensues, and Isabella II., then three years old, was proclaimed. Don
Carlos was also proclaimed by his party, and a sanguinary civil
war ensued; he being supported by the clergy and absolutists,
and the queen-regent by the liberal party. France and England
being constitutional monarchies, cordially united in giving their
EneiSad-6 suPPort to 'the young queens, Maria of Portugal, and Isabella
mirai, Na- II. of Spain. The southern and eastern provinces of Spain rose
Pedthefab-" m 1835, and demanded back a constitution which had been
soiutistsoff adopted in 1812. By the regent's consent it was anew pro-
vfncent.) claimed. The same year the order of Jesuits was suppressed
in Spain, — 900 convents were interdicted, and their property
confiscated for the use of the government. Still the party of
Don Carlos kept its ground, being favored in the northern pro-
1844. vinces. The most revolting scenes occurred of the fratricidal
Spain. slaughter of brethren of the same political family. In 1840 a
peace was made ; and the same year the queen-dowager resigned
the regency, — which the Cortes conferred on general Espar-
tero. In 1843 he was exiled, and Spain is again the theatre
of civil war. Portugal is comparatively tranquil.
10. After the coronation of Charles X. in France, the Jesuits,
and such as adhered to arbitrary principles, were taken into
favor with the king. They were opposed with great energy
and boldness by the liberals. To take off public attention from
*w?r^# ^e^r measures5 and make themselves popular with the nation,
with the ministry made a war with Algiers. It was ably conducted,
Algiers. all(j en{jed in the subjugation of that country ; but the ministry
obtained no credit even for this, and the elections were carried
against them. This they attributed to the influence of " a free
press," which, they said, " was at all times an instrument of dis-
tIree order and se(lition " 0n the 26th of July> 1830, they pub-
days/' lished " The Three Ordinances." The first, dissolved the
1S30.
July 26,
• chamber of deputies ; the second, suspended the liberty of the
27, and' press, and the third, presented a new and arbitrary law of elec-
tion. The first attempts to carry these despotic ordinances into
execution, was the signal for " The Revolution of the Three
9. What was the state of Spain in 1830 ? What arrangements were made
by Ferdinand VII. ? What occurred on his death to produce civil war ? By
whom were the opposite parties supported ? What ground was taken by
France and England ? What was done in Spain in 1835 ? In 1840 and '43 ?
What is in 1844 the state of Spain and Portugal? — lO. Who were favored
by Charles X.? What was done by the liberals ? What war was got up,
and how did it result ? What were the three ordinances ?
UNFORTUNATE REVOLT OF POLAND. 487
Days." This revolution, like the American, was a contest for Modem, Ms.
principle. Under the guidance of the venerable Lafayette, perpdix.
"The Standard" around which the liberal French, as if moved
by one spirit, involuntarily rallied, the revolution was effected.
About 1000 men fell during the " three days." Lafayette was
again made commander-in-chief of the national guards. Charles
and the royal family departed from France. The chamber of
deputies, at the recommendation of Lafayette, made Louis Cth
Philip, of the family of Orleans, king of the French. The ddufk?S
late ministers were tried and sentenced to perpetual imprison- Orleans
ment. Hereditary nobility was abolished, and the elective slded
franchise extended. with the ©
rcvolti— S- *
11. The severity of the Russian government in Poland, with tionists
the loss of national existence, had always been intolerable to at"^n°ebd
that ancient people. An extensive conspiracy of the youth of the
the first families was formed to liberate their country. Their EgSitef
operations were at first carried on in secret, but the conspiracy but was
was discovered, and the prisons were crowded with Polish vie- ed.)
tims. On the evening of the 19th of November, 1830, a young Discontent
Polish officer entered the military school at Warsaw and called of the Poles-
the youth to arms. The cadets instantly took up their line of 1S3C
march, and accompanied by the students of the university, pro- insurrection
ceeded to the residence of Constantino, and forced their way of Warsaw.
into his palace. He escaped by a secret passage. The insur-
rection immediately became general. Forty thousand Polish
troops and citizens, having seized the public arsenal and armed
themselves, expelled the Russian troops from Warsaw. A Po-
lish diet was immediately assembled, and independence declared.
The emperor Nicholas issued a proclamation denouncing the j^gS7a„s
patriots as rebels. A succession of sanguinary battles followed, take war-
in which the Poles were at first victorious ; but single-handed, landTgJin
they were unable to resist the giant power of Russia. They enslaved.
concentrated their forces around Warsaw, where, after several Revoiuti0n
days of continued fighting, the Polish armies were defeated, — in Belgium.
Warsaw was taken, and its defenders slaughtered, or driven WasPthe
into exile. son-Sw
12. The French revolution of 1830 was immediately follow- of George
ed by that of Belgium. The Belgic people, always French in ^arrieYiK
their institutions and feelings, had been, at the congress of heiress of
Vienna, injudiciously annexed to Holland. An opportunity was Jimeited*
now seized to sever themselves, and a national congress assem- princess
bled, which declared the independence of Belgium; and in 1832 The' English
adopted a constitutional monarchy. The representatives of the ^^"ajjfa
five powers, Britain, France, Austria, Russia and Prussia, assem- king, ceased
bled in London, arranged the boundaries of the new kingdom, ^o/oofor
and apportioned the national debt between it and Holland. It his annual
was arranged that Leopold, of Saxe Coburg, should be king extSre.)1"
lO. What three days are mentioned, and what was done during the time ?
Who was the leader at this time ? Who at the recommendation of Lafay-
ette was made king. — 11. Relate the last valiant struggle of the Poles. —
12. What account can you give of Belgium ?
488 REINTERMENT OF NAPOLEON.
Modem His. Qf Belgium. Leopold afterwards married Louisa, eldest daughter
peri'dix. of Louis Philip.
chap. iv. 13 The repeated attempts which have been made upon the life
^"~x/~**-/ of Louis Philip, have been a reason or pretence for so strengthen-
ing his power, and his military arrangements, that he has wholly
abridged the liberties of the French people, — completely shackled
the press, and placed Paris under military despotism. This king
has, however, bent in some things to the spirit of the age; his
government having patronized schools for the improvement of
the common people ; and while his power has promptly quelled
their insurrections, he has gratified the feelings of the French
in asking the British for the remains of him, whose conquests
gave them, for a time, such a proud eminence among the na-
Pouieesent tions. A warlike vessel was sent to St. Helena. The grass-
to st. Heie- grown nook has been disturbed, — and its willow no longer
remaps of waves over the grave of Napoleon. Attended by six hundred
Napoleon, thousand persons — borne on a glittering car, the conqueror
IS4©. again enters Paris. But death has conquered him ; and it is but
Dec 6. dust and ashes, which is borne aloft, in that pompous ceremo-
reinS^dln ma^' The spirit which once gave such mighty energy is gone —
Paris. we know not whither.
CHAPTER IV.
The Republic of America.
1. In the treaty of Ghent, between Great Britain and the
United States, the contracting nations were, in regard to territory,
restored to their respective limits before the contest. The free
institutions of the Republic had been tested, and found adequate
to a state of war, as well as of peace ; and happily those violent
and often alarming party feuds which had arrayed one half of
the people against the other, had been composed. Commodore
Decatur was dispatched with a formidable naval force into the
1815. Mediterranean, to chastise the piratical powers on the coast of
ctastiseathe Barbary. The Algerines were never before so completely hum-
Aigerines. bled. Their shipping was captured, their defences destroyed ;
and the terrified Dey, while his chief city lay exposed to tne
destructive fire of Decatur's guns, consented to make compen-
sation for his past injuries to American commerce, and to with-
draw his claims to the tribute, which the American republic,
13. What has been the course of Louis Philip? In what respect has he
bent to the spirit of the age ? In what particular did he gratify the French
people ? Relate some particulars of the second funeral of Napoleon.
Chap. IV. — 1. How had the peace of Ghent settled affairs between Great
Britain and America ? What circumstances favorable to America are no-
ticed ? What was done by an American fleet under commodore Decatur ?
TRIUMPH OF LAFAYETTE. 489
as well as Europe, had previously submitted to the disgrace of Mo&6™ His.
paying. Tunis and Tripoli were also compelled to agree to perpdix.
humiliating terms of peace. chap. iv.
2. The efforts of congress were directed to improve the in- v-^*-v~*w/
ternal condition and prosperity of the Union. The Bank of the (t^ajhg£f;
United States, which had been established during Washington's son', Mal-
administration, was re-chartered, with a capital of 35,000,000 soann'fJ0ancrk0.e,
of dollars ; and a tariff of duties on foreign commerce was es- son, each
tablished, whose object was to secure some of the more com- sfdency two
mon domestic manufactures against a ruinous foreign compe- terms, and
then D3.-
tition. Mr. Madison, having enjoyed the presidency two trioticaiiy
constitutional terms, declined another election: and the votes of decline.d a
in />i fi i • -i re-election.)
the colleges of electors of the several states were given, with
great unanimity, to James Monroe, also a citizen of Virginia. 181 7*
Mr. Monroe's administration was distinguished by wisdom and Mr- Monroe,
firmness. The federal Union, which had been from time to
time enlarged by the admission of new states,f increased steadily ^aa'admi"
in general prosperity. The United States were fast relieving ted in 1837,
themselves from the pressure of pecuniary embarrassments oc- "atesf—
casioned by the late war. They had an affluent revenue, ac- double the
quired mostly from duties upon foreign commerce, and from
sales of public land. All internal duties and taxes were
abolished ; and the surviving soldiers of the revolution were re- l®1^"*""
lieved from poverty by the grant of an adequate pension. " The Florida,
era of good feeling," that so signally characterised the com-
mencement of the administration of president Monroe, still more
conspicuously distinguished its close.
3. By invitation from the American government, general La- 1824-
fayette arrived in New York, August, 1824. All the associa- Visit of La-
tions connected with the name of Lafayette, were dear to the ("General
American people ; and he was met by a warmth of national La^ayn3"^'"
friendship and gratitude, beyond his most sanguine anticipa- made his
tions. Every where hailed as the cherished " guest of the na- 5regS°.fde-~
tion ;" his progress through the twenty-four states of the re- dining his
public was one continual triumphal procession ; but unlike the ^gjj $$£
heroes of ancient Rome, he was followed by happy friends, not marquis de
humbled enemies. The gratitude of his adopted country did ette!")
not exhaust itself in empty honors. In consequence of his ser-
vices and expenditures during the American revolution, congress
made him a grant of two hundred thousand dollars, and a valu-
able township of land in Florida. The interviews of Lafayette
with some of his most distinguished co-patriots of the olden
time, among whom were the elder Adams, Jefferson, Madison,
and Monroe, standing as they all were on the verge of time,
could not but be affecting. Still more so were his pilgrimages
to the tombs of Washington, and others of the illustrious dead.
After having been present at the inauguration of the younger
2. What two measures of Congress are here related ? What change of
presidents occurred ? What is here mentioned in the side note ? What was
the character of Mr. Monroe's administration, and the condition of the coun-
try ?— 3. Relate the visit of Lafayette to America.
62
490
THREATENED REBELLION OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
TERI'DIX
CHAP. IV.
Modern His. j\,[R Adams, March 4th, 1825, and received from him the na-
tion's farewell, he embarked on board the new frigate Brandy-
wine, and returned to act again an important part on the theatre
of France.
4. On the fiftieth anniversary of the declaration of American
independence, July 4th, 1826, died Thomas Jefferson, the author
of that declaration, and John Adams, its most devoted advocate.
On the fifty-fifth anniversary died James Monroe, another ex-
president. At peace with all the world, and flourishing in agri-
culture, commerce, and manufactures, the United States enjoyed
a degree of prosperity never perhaps exceeded by that of any
people. A wise and vigorous system of finance and expendi-
ture, restricted to the wants of the public, reduced, and finally
extinguished the national debt; while population and wealth
increased in a ratio before unknown in the history of nations.
5. On the 4th of March, 1829, general Jackson was inau-
gurated president of the republic, and John C. Calhoun, vice
president. In 1832, North America was visited by the fatal
" Asiatic Cholera," which began in Asia about fifteen years be-
fore. It passed through Europe, then made its appearance in
Canada, from whence it spread destruction over America ; being
chiefly fatal in populous cities. On the 4th of March, 1833,
general Jackson was again inaugurated president of the republic,
1829.
March 4.
Jackson and
Calhoun in-
augurated.
1833.
vTnBuren. and Martin Van Buren was made vice president.
6. The protective duties laid by congress, while they ad-
vanced the prosperity of the manufacturing interest of the north,
increased the price of commodities, some of which were espe-
cially needed at the south. Hence a violent anti-tariff party
arose, chiefly in South Carolina. After working themselves up
by meetings, speeches, and the press, to a high pitch of excite-
ment, this party proceeded to declare, through a convention
chosen for the purpose, that congress in laying protective du-
ties had exceeded its just powers — that its acts, on this head,
should be null and void, and that it should be the duty of the
legislature of South Carolina to make provision to resist them
by an armed force. The legislature obeyed the ordinance; and
thus for the first time, one of our sister states was in the attitude
of rebellion against the paternal rule of the general government.
The president affectionately called on the wandering state to
return to obedience ; while he took such decided measures to
compel submission, as left little hope that resistance would be
availing. The nullification party then consented to a compro-
mise, which was introduced into congress by Henry Clay.
7. The national bank had, with apparent satisfaction to the
states Bank, business community, afforded the facility of easy transmission,
3. What change of presidents was made in 1825 ? — 4. What remarkable
coincidence has occurred in the death of three ex-presidents ? What was
the state and prospects of the country ?— -5. When did the two inaugurations
of general Jackson occur, and who were the vice presidents ? What account
is given of the Asiatic cholera ? — 6. What occurred in consequence of the
tariff or protective duties? What was the course of the anti-tarifF, or nulli-
fication party in South Carolina? What was that of the president?
"Nullifica-
tion" party
in South
Carolina.
1832.
Convention
of Columbia
pass the
"nullifying"
ordinance.
Jackson's
proclama-
tion.
1833.
Mr. Clay's
"Compro-
mise Bill."
United
IV.
DESTRUCTION OF THE NATIONAL BANK. 491
and a uniform currency to every part of the republic. A party, Modem ms.
however arose, with president Jackson at its head, who op- perpd ix.
posed the bank, doubting its constitutionality and expediency, chap.
His opponents alleged that the directors had refused to permit
its offices to be made by the government the reward of party
services ; as unhappily those of the revenue and post-office
have, within the present century, been more or less made. The
friends of Gen. Jackson, on the other hand, asserted that the
agents of the bank had corruptly used their great moneyed power bank party'
against the supporters of his administration. However the con-
test between the executive and the bank might have begun, its
course was mutual injury, and its close destruction to the bank;
the president, in 1832, putting his veto upon a bill for rechar- 1832.
tering it, which had passed both houses of Congress. In 1833, Gen. Jackson
the charter being soon to expire, Gen. Jackson directed Mr. bank'sch'ar-
Duane, the secretary of the treasury to withdraw from it the ter-
government funds. Mr. Duane, personally responsible in heavy J833.
bonds, refused ; believing that the constitution regarded the Mr. Duane
keeper of the public purse, as amenable rather to the house of withdraw
representatives than to the executive. Gen. Jackson removed the deposits.
him and put Mr. Taney in his place, by whom the funds were
withdrawn. They were afterwards, by act of congress, placed 1835.
in certain selected state banks, which were encouraged to dis- p^acedTnUie
count freely; and thus facilities too great before, by which "Pet„
money might be obtained on credit, were increased.
8. A perfect madness of speculation became rife throughout
the land. The lots of cities, real or imaginary, were so bought
and sold that fortunes were made in a day. Idleness and extra-
vagance took the place of industry and economy. This public *$«*»•
fever had, in 1837, a fearful crisis. Before it every one seemed The "Re-
growing rich, after it many individuals and families were truly ' u 1&^£
reduced from affluence to hopeless poverty. The banks were specie pay-
obliged to suspend specie payment, and credit seemed univer-
sally at an end. But by a return to the neglected virtues of in-
dustry and economy, and by the great productive powers of the
labor, the soil, and the manufactures of the country, business
has revived. The banks of New York, in 1838, resumed specie 1838.
payment, and those in other parts of the country, which did gume^pecie
not utterly fail, soon followed their example. State govern- payment,
ments, and other corporations, which partook the general mania (Tnere has
of dealing upon credit, are now paying old debts, rather than never been
making new ones ; and they are all beginning to learn, that the the country
people prefer to be taxed, rather than that any corporation to JfJJjjJj in
which they belong, should suffer the disgrace of " repudiating ail the ne-
their debts." cessjmesof
9. A portion of the aboriginal Indian tribes remained on their
T. Give an account of the national bank, — the opposition to it, — its fall.
Of Gen. Jackson's course in regard to the secretary of the treasury. — 8„
Relate the course of things preceding the revulsion. At what time did that
occur? What was then the condition of the country? What causes are
producing returning prosperity ?
ment.
492
THE FLORIDA WAR.
Modern His.
PERI'DIX.
CHAP. IV.
(The Chero-
kees are, we
believe, now
satisfied. A
newspaper
is (1844,)
just esta-
blished by
the nephew
of their prin-
cipal chief,
John Ross.)
1835.
Dec. 23.
DADE'S
BATTLE-
FIELD.
All the Ame-
ricans,(117,)
killed.
1S36.
OKEE-
CHOBEE.
Indians
routed.
1837-
March 4.
Inaugura-
tion of Van
Buren and
Johnson.
reservations within the republic. Their settled practice of making
war, when so far from having declared it, their show of friend-
ship was the greatest, made them dangerous and dreaded neigh-
bors. The general government had become involved in an
agreement with Georgia to extinguish the Indian title to lands
within its borders. Yet in its north-western section the Chero-
kees, the most civilized of the North American tribes, inhabited
and refused to quit their ancient domain. The president be-
lieved, that if the Indians attempted to remain within the United
States, it would but lead, as in former cases, to their own de-
struction. Fie therefore proposed to congress that they should
set apart a large territory in the far west, and remove them
thither. Congress authorized general Jackson to carry out his
project, and, one by one, the tribes have been sent to their des-
tined abode. The treaty by which certain of their chiefs
pledged the Cherokees, was considered by the body of that na-
tion as unfairly obtained ; but they were obliged to leave their
homes by the presence of a military force, which they could
not hope to resist.
10. The Seminoles of Florida, incited by their chief Osceola,
refused to remove; and a war was carried on to hunt them out
from the unhealthy morasses of that peninsula, destructive of
numbers of our bravest soldiers, and millions of our treasure.
One little army of 117 men, under major Dade, fell into an
ambuscade and were all cut off. A year after, at lake Okee-
Chobee, 138 were killed, among whom was their commander
colonel Thompson; and it was not until 1842 that the Semi-
noles were subdued and carried to the Indian territory. While
the Florida war was in progress, the Creeks attacked a steamboat
on the Chattahoochee river and burned it; — another was fired,
and with all its passengers consumed. General Scott was sent
against these Indians ; and in a few months they were reduced
to submission, and sent to the west.
11. On the 4th of March, 1837, occurred the inauguration of
Martin Van Buren, as president of the United States, and
Richard M. Johnson, as vice president. Mr. Van Buren was
unfortunate in the time of his accession to the presidency, as it
was the year of " the revulsion" when there was so much pe-
cuniary distress. Many thought that the government should have
attempted something for the general relief; but the president be-
lieved that the faults of individuals had produced the depression,
and individual industry and enterprize would alone suffice to
restore prosperity. Meantime, as the banks where the govern-
ment deposits had been kept were not considered safe, he
projected a plan for keeping the public purse, called "the sub-
9. What practice of the Indians made it apparently expedient that they
should be removed ? In what engagement was the United States involved ?
What plan was proposed — by whom — and what occurred in consequence ?
What is remarked concerning the Cherokees ? — lO. Give an account of
the Florida, or second Seminole war? — 11. What change of presidents oc-
curred, and when ? Why was Mr. Van Buren unfortunate in the time of
his presidency ?
THE ANGLO-SAXON NATIONS. 493
treasury scheme," which proving unpopular, he lost the next Modern His.
election. It was by the freemen given to general Harrison, perpdix.
as president, and John Tyler, as vice president. The benevo- chap. iv.
lent and kind hearted Harrison died in one month after he was v—'"'v'^w
inaugurated, — when, by the constitution, Mr. Tyler became pre- 1S41.
•j t ■ * Harrison's
smenL short presi-
12. The affinity of blood, of language, and of a free press and dency.
constitutional government, which exists between Great Britain
and this country, together with a close commercial connexion, Fnendiydis-
, . •; 7 & .. , , „ , " positions be-
seems at this time cementing these two great branches of the tween Great
Anglo-Saxon family. During Gen. Jackson's administration, America.*1
when Louis Philip wholly neglected to fulfil the terms of a treaty
by which the French had engaged to pay for their spoliations on
our commerce, — and general Jackson had taken that resolute
tone of compulsion from which he never receded, England in- Jhr,ougd^
terfered by her friendly mediation, and saved us from a war ; per- mediation
suading the king of the French to show his justice, rather than Ft™^e0Jaeyy3
his valor. When our citizens interfered in the rebellion of stipulated in
Canada, Great Britain liberally accepted the assurances of our Treaty?''
government, that the interference was unauthorized ; and a ques-
tion long agitated, concerning the boundary line between Maine
and Lower Canada, has at length been amicably adjusted by a
treaty negotiated at Washington, by lord Ashburton on the 1842-
part of the British government, and Daniel Webster the Ameri- r^Ify £«'.
can secretary of state. The great operations of Christian bene- fWpp|i r
volence by which the present age is distinguished, have been Britain'
mainly carried on by these two nations, Great Britain generally „j +ije
taking the lead. In another remarkable characteristic of the it states
present time, the application of steam to useful arts, particularly
to the increase of the speed of travelling by sea and land, — while
the Anglo-Saxon nations have led the rest of the world, the
Americans have not been at all behind their father-land.
13. The free institutions of America are watched by Euro-
pean politicians with intense interest. None can deny their
excellence ; but many predict their downfall. Trials have al-
ready occurred, but they have been thus far efficiently met.
By the goodness of Almighty God, we have been preserved
from civil war ; and our hope for the future preservation of our
righteous institutions is in him, and in the degree of piety,
virtue, and intelligence, which exists among our citizens, female
as well as male. The course of history, which we have pur-
sued, has shown us, that with virtue a nation may continue
prosperous and happy ; but when the people become corrupt,
then ensues anarchy, — to save from whose bloody and intoler-
able scourge, the iron rule of despotism is welcomed as a relief.
11. Who was Mr. Van Buren's successor in the presidency, and how
long did he remain ? Who succeeded him ? — 12. What remark concern-
ing Great Britain and our republic is here made ? What friendly office did
Great Britain perform in regard to France. In what two instances has
Great Britain shown a disposition to cultivate peace with our republic ? In
what respects have Great Britain and America led the rest of the world ? —
13* What are the author's concluding remarks ?
494
CONCLUSION.
Modern His.
PERI'D IX.
CHAP. IV.
(The riots
in Philadel-
phia are
now in pro-
gress; and
the dis-
graceful
scenes of
the spring of
1844, in the
hall of na-
tional re-
presenta-
tion, have
just past.)
Conduct by
which our
citizens may
preserve our
country.
If they are wrong who hold that this is the inevitable destiny
of our republic, no less do those err who treat with levity every
suggestion that such is our danger. Has the Ruler of Nations
given assurance that he will set aside the order of his provi-
dence in our behalf? Has he given us a license to commit,
with impunity, offences for which he has filled other nations
with blood] Let the father consider, as he looks upon the
group which surrounds his fireside, that, although their being
has begun under the sunny skies of public prosperity, its course
may lie through the gloomy influences of public misrule, and
finally, of desolating anarchy ; — then will he turn aside from
his too anxious cares to earn a fortune for their present and fu-
ture luxury, and awake to preserve the institutions of his coun-
try, which cannot go to decay without dashing out the value of
property, and putting life itself in peril ; for, rocked in the eagle-
nest of liberty, America must first be crushed, before she changes
her republicanism for monarchy. He would then lay by his
petty prejudices of section or party; — he would vole for no
miscreant to public office, who, false to the laws of his God
and a traitor to his domestic relations, makes a contemptible
parade of his love to his country ; — he would pay no money to
support public prints which are careless of truth, and scatter
public immorality ; — and he would not, by laxity of family dis-
cipline, leave the wills of his children in the untamed condition
of savage nature, but betimes inure them to obey lawful authori-
ties. In all the boasted political compacts of the founders of
our government, the solemn obligation was entered into, to yield
voluntary obedience to the constituted powers. Finally, the
conscientious respect to law in the hearts of the people, is that
one virtue — the offspring and the parent of many others — which
alone can sustain a republican government. This, with the
continued smiles of the God of our Fathers, may preserve our
noble political inheritance ; not only to bless our own posterity,
but to remain a beacon-light, amidst the dark waves of oppres-
sion, in which the weakness and wickedness of mankind have,
for so many ages, involved the nations of the earth.
499 &
o
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